Harden off seedlings grown under cover

Tender young plants need a period of gradual adjustment before introducing to the garden. The simple but crucial process of acclimatising seedlings to life in the garden is called hardening off.

Begin hardening off your seedlings at least a week before their transplant date. Keep the seedlings well watered throughout the process.

Set the containers (whether trays or individual pots) in a sheltered, shady spot outdoors. Bring the plants back inside at night, and bring them in at any time of day if the weather turns cold, windy or rainy.

Slowly expose the plants to more sun. After two or three days, you can safely keep them in the sun for half a day, then return them to the shade. After 7-10 days they'll be tough enough to soak up the rays all day.

Transplant the seedlings to the garden on an overcast day to ease the shock of transition from their pot to ground. Ensure they are well-watered.