I've started some flower and vegetable seedlings indoors. Can I plant them directly outdoors in spring?
I've started some flower and vegetable seedlings indoors. Can I plant them directly outdoors in spring?
Flower and vegetable plants purchased from greenhouses or started indoors should not be planted directly into the garden. The intense sun and strong winds may damage or kill the tender seedlings. Bedding plants should be "hardened" (acclimated to outdoor growing conditions) before transplanting them into the garden. Initially place the plants in a shady, protected site. Then gradually expose the plants to longer periods of direct sun. Closely watch the plants during this period. If possible, check on them at least once or twice a day. Thoroughly water the seedlings when the soil surface becomes dry to the touch. Move the plants indoors if strong winds, a severe storm, or an overnight frost threatens them. After several days of hardening, the flower and vegetable plants should be ready for planting.
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