Define hardening off?

8 years ago

I believe the point of hardening off plants started indoors means 3 things. I ranked them in what I think is the order of importance. Tell me if you agree.

1. Get used to fluctuating temps

2. Get used to sunlight

3. Get used to less water

4. Getting used to wind

I typically take my plants outdoors "full time" or with maybe one day outside a few hours when warm. However I put them under cold frames and add some heat. Do you think I am doing this to fast? Worked before - but this time due to a vacation I might have to go straight outside (in a cold frame with heating mat) a little earlier and with no trips outside prior. Ok?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
8 years ago
This is a pretty thorough presentation of what is involved - hardening off. But there is some flexibility in the duration/time frame involved depending on your local conditions.
floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
8 years ago
The local conditions GG mentioned are important. In my climate, for example, hardening off includes getting used to more water ; - )
Related Professionals
Toms River Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Williamsburg Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Chico Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers · Washington Landscape Contractors · Lake City Landscape Contractors · Madison Landscape Contractors · Atlantic City Landscape Contractors · Columbia Landscape Contractors · Williamsburg Landscape Contractors · Fall River Landscape Contractors · Kalispell Landscape Contractors · Wenatchee Landscape Contractors · Toms River Accessory Dwelling Units · Lawrence Accessory Dwelling Units · Rutland Accessory Dwelling Units
digdirt2
8 years ago
Try the search. Not only is there a FAQ here about it there are literally hundreds of discussions about it, many relative to specific climates.

Please note that ANY change in their climate requires some 'hardening', some adjustment or possible damage. Outside briefly is one change, outside to cold frame is another climate change and out of a cold frame to the exposed garden is another big change. So "outside to a cold frame with a heating mat" does not result in fully hardened off plants.

Dave
gumby_ct
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Don keep in mind that with "direct seeding" - hardening off is another (very critical) step which is not needed. Amazing little seedlings adapt on their own.

If not hardened off the seedlings will die. fwiw - I have bought plants from big box stores and flea markets, etc. which were never hardened off. One time from a Master Gardener. Be sure to ask when buying.
ootockalockatuvik_7a
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
1. Sunlight - most important, so they don't burn. I put them under deck seating and gradually pull them out for more and more light. Usually after one week, they go into final location in the ground. I have used agribon/shadecloth to adjust to bright sun when I did not have enough under deck seating space.

2. Wind - indoor seedlings are often very weak and blow over easily. I often just stake them with shish kabob sticks to keep upright. I don't tie them, just stick between some branches.

3. Temperature - I don't put stuff out until I know it can handle the low. Better safe than sorry, especially with peppers. I will pull them inside if a random cold spell is forecasted, but for me, once they go out they stay out.

4. Water - I never really considered this one. I just water when dry.
vgkg Z-7 Va
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Once my indoor seeds are up I'll take the trays outside and place them in dappled shade when temps are above 60F and it's not too windy. After 2-3 days like that they should be ok for more direct sun and a bit more breezy conditions. I also try to do the same thing to break-in any store bought transplants. Sunscald and/or windburn are the 2 main things to avoid here.