"Hardening off" is the process of acclimatizing indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions.
Start hardening off a week before the final frost date for your area. This timing ensures the safety of your plants.
Choose a sheltered spot to harden off your plants. Greenhouses, cold frames, or clustered pots in buckets can provide protection.
Begin hardening off on a still, cloudy day. Start with two hours outside and gradually increase the time.
In cold winter regions, prepare plants for cooler nights. Use fleece or row covers to protect them overnight.
Grow a few more plants than you need. This way, you have backups in case some don't survive the transition.
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