Once seeds have germinated/sproting, how ong before you have to remove them from the seed starters and plant?

Question

This is my first vegetable garden....and I dont want it to be a dud.

Answer 1

First of all, as soon as they sprout make sure you thin them. This is critical. You only want your most healthy plants to move to step 2. If yo dont thin, the plants will compete for water and light. Second, as soon as the plants have their first two leaves, it is time to transplant. Do not pull up by the roots....plant trauma. Loosen the dirt and pick the plants up by the leaves to put into a new pot. Remember, plants started indoors need 16 hours of sunlight a day so you will probably need supplemental lighting. Good luck. Gardening is the greatest

Answer 2

It depends upon the weather and how big they are. As said by others, make sure that they have developed their secondary leaves. Most seedlings will need to be 1 - 2 inches tall or more.

Try to "harden them off" by gradually getting them used to the outside temperatures. Perhaps put them outside (in their trays) for a few hours on a warmish, still day. Repeat and extend the time.

Don't plant most things out until the soil has warmed up - at least 7 degrees Celsius for most vegetables.

Tomatoes and peppers will need warmer conditions, though.

Good luck and I hope you enjoy growing things - it is great fun.

Answer 3

Congradulations on your first veggie garden! Once your seedlings have their second set of leaves (their true leaves) they can be transplanted in a potting soil. You want to use something that has vermiculite or perlite, compost, and peat moss. Then keep the soil moist but not too wet (or your seedlings will die). Be very careful, when you transplant, not to break the seedlings. Also, don't put them outside too early.

Answer 4

You have along time depending on size planter they are in. Look at the plants they sell. Make sure the roots are strong and the wheather is going to stay good.

Answer 5

give them a few days to get good and strong before putting them outside. it's hard to give an exact time frame but usually a week a week after they've germinated.