Hey everyone! I've got a question about hardening off my plants. My work schedule is kinda unpredictable, so I've only managed to put my plants outside for about 5 days over the past 2 weeks. They've been exposed to full sunlight for around 8 hours on those days. With this inconsistent hardening off method, will my plants be ready for planting next week? Once they've been outside, do they retain that hardened off state, or will going back indoors too often mean I have to start over?
4 Answers
From what I've seen, your plants should be just fine! I live in a place where temperatures fluctuate a lot in the spring, and I don’t rush the hardening off process if it’s too cold or windy. Just keep an eye on any new growth; if they’ve sprouted tender leaves indoors, those might need a bit more care when transitioning outside.
I usually skip hardening off for quick-growing plants like lettuce and broccoli. For my tomatoes and peppers, I’ll move them out gradually and plant them within a week.
Have you thought about putting them under some kind of cover? That usually helps mine adjust better.
Are you suggesting row covers once they're in the ground, or just keeping them in a shed or carport? I could do that while at work, but it makes me a bit anxious not being there.
Plants adapt to their surroundings over time. While hardening off can help them adjust, it's not the end of the world if you miss some days. Just try to pick a time when the weather isn't too extreme, and disturb the roots as little as possible.
I do my hardening off sporadically too, and it has worked out well for me. It might take a bit longer, but I've had success even without consistent timing.
That makes sense! I'll be on the lookout for any new growth.