View or download the Veggie Plant Care Tip Sheet
SEEDLING CARE
LIGHT Your seedlings are partially hardened off by being outside and exposed to the sun. Continue to take them outside as long as the temperature is above 50 degrees.
TEMPERATURE Most warm season vegetables grow best at 55-60° at night and 65-75° during the day.
WATER Water regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the top of the soil to dry out. Bottom watering is preferred by placing the potted seedlings in a tray of water with the water level at 1" inch up the pots for 10-15 minutes.
FERTILIZER Fertilize with a water-soluble fertilizer at one-half strength every other week.
HARDENING OFF For 1-2 weeks before planting in the garden, adjust your plants to the outdoors by taking them outside for gradually increasing periods of time. Do not take them out on windy days or when the temperature is below 50°.
POTTING UP/TRANSPLANTING If your seedlings outgrow their current pots before it is time to plant outdoors, transplant the plants into larger pots such as gallon size. Use a commercial growing medium, not garden soil.
WHEN TO PLANT SEEDLINGS IN THE GARDEN Wait to plant warm season vegetables until after your area's last frost date. If your plants are tall and leggy, you can plant them deeper or trench them. Check out our demonstration video on FaceBook.
Consult the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County Foothill Vegetable Planting Guide for more information on planting and harvesting dates.
