Hey everyone! I'm a newbie to veggie gardening and I recently made a bit of a blunder. I transplanted my zucchini and cucumber seedlings into larger pots, thinking they were ready for a bigger home. Unfortunately, they've started to look really droopy and sad since the switch. I used Miracle Gro container soil, which seemed damp at first. They're currently indoors by a sunny window, and I take them out when it's warm. Is there any chance they'll recover, or should I just start over since it's still early in the season? Also, are there other plants I should be careful with when transplanting? Thanks a bunch! (By the way, I'm gardening in zone 5a.)
3 Answers
Direct sowing is definitely a great way to go with zucchinis and cucumbers. They tend to grow better straight from seed in the ground, so you might consider that next time instead of transplanting. Just for the record, I’ve had good luck transplanting them too, as long as you’re gentle and make sure to water them well afterward.
You have a couple of options here. First, get your raised beds ready and plant some new seeds directly. That way, you have a backup plan! Second, just be patient and give your current plants some time; they might surprise you!
Thanks for the tips! The beds are going up this weekend! ?
Transplanting cukes can be tricky—they tend to wilt and look dramatic after being moved. My advice is to stay patient; they might just be adjusting. Sometimes they get rid of their old leaves after a transplant, but don’t worry, new ones will come in. Just keep them moist, but not soggy. In the future, try to start more cucumber sprouts than you think you'll need; it might save you some heartache!
Thanks for the encouragement! ?
Yeah, I watered them after, but maybe I wasn’t gentle enough. I was a bit rough with the zucchini! ?