GUIDE
Planting out (hardening off)
4 steps
How to do it
- 1Harden off young or tender plants gradually over 7-10 days, giving increasing time outside each day before leaving them out overnight.
- 2Wait until the last-frost risk has genuinely passed for tender plants, not just until it feels warm.
- 3Water the plant well before planting, and water the planting hole too if the soil is dry.
- 4Firm in gently after planting and water in thoroughly.
COMMON MISTAKE
Moving a plant raised indoors straight outside into full sun and wind without hardening off — the sudden change can scorch it or check its growth badly.
Plants that use it
Their calendar has a job that points to this guide.
RELATED GUIDES
DeadheadingFeeding & NPK basicsSowing in trays under coverPropagation: taking cuttings