Measure and record the soil and air temperatures in your
garden or use a trusted local source for tracking temperatures like The
Growing Degree Day
Calculator, developed by UI Extension Educator Jemila Chellappa. Using this
real-time information to determine planting dates every year will limit risk of
frost damage.
Whether you’re planting in plugs from the local nursery,
potting up seedlings, or moving young plants in and out of your own greenhouse
you can and should follow a few simple steps to successfully transplant
vegetables and flowers this spring. As the days grow longer and the warmth of
the spring sun fuels new life, remember that giving your plants extra attention
during this stage is critical to ensuring they’ll thrive! Here are some easy
tips to keep your garden happy:
Rely on average soil and air temperatures rather than your zone frost dates when you’re ready to start outdoor
plantings.
Gradually acclimate young plants and plugs to their new
space over the course of a week after any risk of frost if possible. Carefully
prepare the planting holes paying close attention to depth to ensure roots are
fully covered. This is a good time to add a small amount of mycorrhizal
inoculant and organic fertilizer to each planting hole.
Hardening off process is next. “There are no hard and fast rules. Over a period of about a
week, gradually increase the time the plants are in full sun, exercising care
if a day is particularly hot or windy. Be sure to keep the seedlings well-watered,
and avoid locations that might attract animal or insect pests.” (The Master
Gardeners of Santa Clara, 2026)
Now that your plants have hardened off and become familiar
with their new home it’s time to pick a calm afternoon for planting. Be sure
the planting area is well watered before beginning, carefully remove the plant
from its container with clean hands and tools, place in the planting hole so
the soil levels are even. Gently fill in with soil around the roots and firm it
in place. Always water in plants after transplanting, even if the ground is
moist, as this helps the root mass settle into the new soil. Settling new soil is very important to avoid air pockets
around the root ball that can be fatal to a plant. Proper transplanting
practices will lead to healthier more vigorous plants that require less
maintenance.
