
Erica Groneman

You can start seeds indoors before you are ready to do your outdoor planting. It is most common to do this in the spring, before the last frost. But, you can also start your seeds indoors during the hot summer months in preparation for a fall planting of some cool season vegetables. After you have started your seeds indoors and they appear to be thriving, when is it time to transplant?
About 3 weeks after sprouting, your seedlings should have 2-3 sets of true leaves. At this point the cotyledons have died off and you should have only one seedling per pot or cell (thin any extras). Depending on the size of your container, you may need to repot to a larger container to allow the roots plenty of room to grow before transplanting outside. You don’t want to crowd your little plants. Make sure the container is big enough so the plant learns before going outside that their roots are allowed to stretch, grow, and thrive.
About 10 -14 days before your expected transplant date (when the danger of frost will have passed), begin to harden off your plants. Do this by taking them outside to a wind sheltered spot for an hour the first day then bring them back inside. On the second day try for two hours outside, then bring them back inside. Continue to increase the time spent outside each day until the plants have spent the whole day outside. This will prevent shock when they get put in the ground.
Your seedlings are ready to transplant when they look strong and vibrant. Make sure your garden soil is well prepared and you have amended your soil if needed. Make the hole in your garden space and carefully remove your plant with its soil from the transplant container. Gently break up any roots balls that may have formed and put your plant in the hole. Water thoroughly.
About the Author

Hi, I’m Erica Groneman. I am a mom, volunteer, and a gardener. There’s something satisfying about getting my hands dirty and watching things grow. I believe gardening is universal and crosses all boundaries, bringing us all together. I hope we can share in the joy of growing together. Thanks for stopping by!
Our Recommended Picks
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
0 Comments
No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation
Further Reading
Celebrate Earth Day with 10% Off - 48 Hours Only
Celebrate Earth Day 2025 with 10% off SITEWIDE with code “EARTH25” Offer only valid for 48 hours - 9 A.M. 4/23/2025 through 9 A.M. 4/25/2025 MDT Save on your last-minute spring garden needs! Seeds, supplies, and more! This deal won’t last long. What is...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-04-232 min read0Living on the Edge: 10+ Edible Plants for Landscape Borders
Written By Lara Wadsworth Why settle for pretty when your garden and landscape borders can be tasty too? If you’ve ever met me, you know that I love beautiful plants that are also utilitanian. Plants that feed the soil, feed me, or promote pollinators ...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-04-237 min read0Growing Microgreens at Home: A Beginner's Experience
Written By Lara Wadsworth Microgreens seem to be used at every gourmet restaurant, are being talked about in every health magazine, and are having more and more scientific research released about the purported health benefits of these little plants. Wh...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-04-1510 min read0How to Harden Off Seedlings in 5 Easy Steps
Written By Lara Wadsworth Hardening off is the process of gradually exposing your seedlings to new outdoor conditions to help them adjust without experiencing transplant shock. This is when a seedling becomes delayed, stunted, or even dies after being ...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-04-156 min read4