Caring for Seedlings

You’re in garden mode, you’ve just picked up your green babies and/or seed packets, and it’s time to take the next steps. Which are… what, exactly?

Well, I’ll tell ya. From one Southeast Wisconsin-er to another, spring is as lovely and exciting as it is unpredictable. Once cold night can undo 6-8 weeks of growth that it took to get your seedlings ready to plant. Likewise, a sudden temperature spike can easily scald tender leaves or roots if plants while they’re still in their transplant cells. Not to worry, I’ve got you covered. Some simple considerations can keep your plants happy and healthy until they, and you, and the weather, are ready for planting.

Seedling Care Checklist

• Baby plants in tiny cells need to stay moist. They are used to being watered in the greenhouse 1-3 times per day depending on how sunny or warm the conditions may be. The potting mix should feel moist to the touch. Keep a watering can handy, as the gentle showering pattern is easy on tender seedlings, allows for proper percolation to the roots, and won’t dislodge them like a blast with the hose will.

• Plants need light, especially if you are trying to size them up a bit before planting. While many houseplants prefer it, most of the veggie and herb seedlings will benefit from more direct sun than most windowsills can offer. MOST OF THE TIME, in Mid-May, southern-facing full sun spots outside are best, especially against a wall or fence. You want them to stay used to being outside to minimize transplant shock when you get there.

• Pluck off any premature flowering you see. While many box stores often sell transplants that are in full flower, farmers know that you get better performance from plants when they are prevented from flowering before getting in the ground.

• Pay close attention to night time temperatures. Most of us are not outside at 1 AM, but the plants are, and they feel all the highs and the lows of spring. Also keep in mind that young plants are more tender than mature ones, so even cold hardy crops like brassicas, mint, lavender, or thyme may go unscathed by a hard frost or snow. For tender annuals like tomatoes and peppers, you definitely want to protect them from temps below 50 degrees at night. Here are a few ideas for backyard nursery set ups:

Please note that it’s just as important to check daytime temps, as the very thing that can protect plants at night may fry them if we suddenly get a 75 degree day!

I hope that this has been helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments. Happy planting!

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Wondering how to store your harvest? Check out our Southeast Wisconsin Harvest Calendar, including tips for storage, recipes, and more. 

Want more veggies? Check out our local vegetable subscription (CSA) or find us at the farmers market if you’d like to supplement your home garden harvest with fresh organic produce from our farm!