Transplanting seedlings from seed trays requires care to avoid damaging the delicate plants. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Steps for Transplanting Seedlings
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Prepare Your New Pots or Trays: Fill small pots or trays with peat-free multi-purpose compost. Lightly dampen the compost before transplanting. This helps the roots settle.
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Loosen the Seedling's Roots: Use a pencil, dibber, or similar tool to gently lever the seedling and its surrounding compost out of the seed tray. Be careful not to pull directly on the stem.
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Handle with Care: Always hold the seedling by its leaves, not the stem. The leaves are replaceable, but a crushed stem can be fatal to the seedling.
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Create a Hole: Make a hole in the compost of the new pot or tray that is large enough to accommodate the seedling's root ball.
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Plant the Seedling: Carefully place the seedling into the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the compost.
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Backfill and Firm: Gently backfill the hole with compost, lightly firming the soil around the base of the seedling. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
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Water Thoroughly: Water the newly transplanted seedling gently but thoroughly. This helps settle the soil and encourages root growth.
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Provide Adequate Light and Care: Place the transplanted seedlings in a location with appropriate light and temperature conditions. Monitor them closely for the first few days and water as needed.
By following these steps, you can successfully transplant seedlings from seed trays to promote healthy growth.
