I Forgot to Harden Off. Half Died.
I moved my seedlings outside without hardening them off. Half died within 2 days. Here’s what hardening off means.
What I Did
I started seedlings indoors. They were healthy. 4 inches tall.
I moved them directly to my balcony. In full sun. In May.
What Happened
Day 1: Leaves started looking pale. Day 2: Leaves were white and crispy. Day 3: Half the seedlings were dead.
What I Learned
Indoor seedlings have thin leaves. Direct sun and wind burn them.
Hardening Off
You have to introduce them gradually:
- Day 1-2: 1 hour, shade
- Day 3-4: 2 hours, morning sun
- Day 5-6: 4 hours
- Day 7-8: 6 hours
- Day 9-10: Full day outside
What I Do Now
Set a timer. Bring them in. Every day for 10 days. No shortcuts.