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Hardening off seedlings

CLBCLB Posts: 26
in Plants
I think hardening off is the right word correct me if I'm wrong!

Would I be able to put the seedlings in the shed over night then bring them out in the day when it's warmer up a bit? 

We have a conservatory but it feels colder in there at night than inside the shed so thought I could probably use it? 

I could keep them inside on the windowsills at night but I need some space for more seeds I'm about to plant so I was going to start moving the larger seedlings outside or at least away from the windowsill.

Posts

  • Blue OnionBlue Onion Posts: 2,995
    edited April 2018
    I put them in a clear plastic crate with the lid off, which makes them easy to move in and out, and provides a bit of wind protection.  Put them out for an hour or two at first, and gradually increase the time each day.  If your shed is warmer, then that should be fine.  Putting the lid of the crate on while inside will give additional protection.  
    Utah, USA.
  • CLBCLB Posts: 26
    Thanks for the help Onion!
  • Blue OnionBlue Onion Posts: 2,995
    What plants are you hardening off?
    Utah, USA.
  • Green MagpieGreen Magpie Posts: 806
    Excellent idea, Blue Onion, thanks for the tip!
  • CLBCLB Posts: 26
    I currently have Lobelia and Felicia growing, it says to plant them out in May but they’re more than big enough to be put into larger pots (which I have moved them to now) I just need to harden them off now 
  • LynLyn Posts: 23,190
    However big they are, you still can’t plant out until May. There could be a morning frost, and you’ll lose the lot.
    this is the problem when seeds are sown too early,  you have to pot them on and find somewhere to accommodate them until the weather is warm. 

    Gardening on the wild, windy west side of Dartmoor. 

  • CLBCLB Posts: 26
    I’ve potted most of them on now so I’ll have to find room for them away from the harsh outdoors until May 
  • Jason millyJason milly Posts: 546
    Yes keep them in for a little longer , it's a moving around game. 
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