Hardening off is not an exact science, doing it gradually is the real trick. Sounds like you're on your way.

And keep in mind that sun exposure is not the only variable in hardening off. To focus on only 1 aspect of the process is mis-leading.

Wind/breeze exposure, container size, plant variety, and ambient air temps are all equally important variables. Not to mention sun aspect to the horizon at a location, etc. etc. The goal is to balance as many of those variables as possible over time in your climate.

For example: as of today's date, assuming clear skies, the sun is much more intense and slightly different spectrum over yards in say Kentucky than it is in say New Jersey. And 6" containers of sun-loving plants can tolerate longer initial sun exposure than 4" containers can if no wind. Shade plants tolerate less sun exposure even in bigger containers. Wind can reduce both.

We'd all love to be able to simplify the process or define specific steps and time periods to use and count on it work well every time. But short of everyone building the ideal hardening-off containment area outside, it just isn't possible given all the variables so all anyone can advise is general guidelines.

Dave

On what? What part?

Dave

I'm not saying you aren't taking other variables into consideration. You likely are but they just are not included in your notes above so their applicability to any others is limited. Your notes only refer to just shade and sun. Shade and sun in your specific location. That would be different for anyone else.

Only one mention of daybreak air temps.

Both your plants are full sun lovers vs. shade plants which would have much less tolerance.

No mention of container size or uniformity.

No mention of plant age/size.

No mention of wind.

etc.

I am glad this approach apparently worked for you. But you present it as a sort of guide on how to do it "at an accelerated pace" and avoiding the gradual aspect of hardening when it in no way invalidates the need for a gradual hardening. And you also asked for others for their experiences in hardening off too.

My point is that hardening off plants is unique to every individual's location, plants, wind, container size, plant type and age, weather, etc. So any "how-to-do-it" info has to be taken with a grain of salt rather than as an actual guide on how to do it. And that is especially true when trying to rush the process.

Like David said, it isn't an exact science and doing it very gradually is the only tip that can and does apply to all. If one cannot do it very gradually then we do the best we can and hope for good results. If all goes well, great, but rushing the process should be avoided whenever possible.

Dave