Transplanting for indoor growing

Once the plants have achieved an adequate size, usually around 10-12 cm high (3rd or 4rd set of true leaves), it is time to transplant them into larger containers.

Choose only the strongest plants for transplanting. It’s best to transplant several of one type and then, once established, thin the weaker plants.

When transplanting there are a few points to consider:

Try not to disturb the roots.

When you transplant, you will have to bother a plants’ roots to some extent, but try to minimize this impact as much as possible. Try to keep the root ball intact and don’t shake our soil when moving the seedling.

Cut or tear the side of your pellet.

If you are planting straight from pellets, tear or cut one side of the pellet. Although roots can break through the fine mesh, cutting it will help your roots to expand more easily.

Make sure your plant plug is fully covered.

Ensure that you are planting your seedlings to the appropriate depth. Their roots and plug from their last container or pellet should be completely covered. If they are left above the soil, the water from the plug will evaporate first and your plant will dry out.

Water after transplanting.

Your seedlings will have a bit of a shock once transplanted. Give them water immediately after transplanting. The plant’s roots will need time to recover. Transplants will need to be lightly watered from the soil surface for 3-5 days until roots become more established.

Transplant deep rooted vegetables into larger containers.
Make sure that fruiting vegetables are planted into deeper containers. Herbs and leafy greens, such as chard or kale, can be planted into shallow containers as their root system is not as big.