It happens that tomato seedlings after transplanting to soil are poor and are more susceptible to diseases. This is most often due to the fact that we did not harden or did it too early or incorrectly. So it’s worth knowing how to do this important activity to be able to enjoy abundant crops in the future.
Hardening tomato seedlings is a process that enables gradual habit of plants to the external conditions. Due to the fact that young tomatoes are usually grown in a warm room where they are protected against factors such as wind, sun or lower temperatures, We must harden so that there is no shock when they are transplanting to the ground.
As a result, this could lead to inhibition of plant growth, leaf fall and general weakness of the specimen. In addition, displaying tomatoes without hardening often It causes that plants are easier to burn.
We should start hardening seedlings about two weeks before the end of night frosts. However, due to the fact that sometimes it is difficult to predict this date, it is assumed that Hardening should be started when the temperature during the day stabilizes and is about 10-15 degrees Celsius.
Remember, however, to carry out this process gradually. On the first day of the pots with cuttings, we only take it outside for an hour. At the same time, when doing this, we must ensure that we put them in a place with a dispersed light, not in the direct sun. It is best to start hardening on the day when there is partial cloudiness.
Besides Do not put on the groundbecause it is much cooler with the ground. It is best to place them on a table or windowsill. After an hour, we bring the tomatoes back to the room.
Whereas On the second day, we take the tomatoes for two hours. Every next day we increase hardening by an hour. This process is completed when the cuttings spend most of the day outside.
During hardening We also cannot forget about the regular irrigation of young tomatoes, Because under the influence of sun and wind, the soil in pots dry much faster. However, be careful not to soak tomato leaves during water supply.
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After hardening, tomatoes can be planted into the ground. However, we must remember that they are thermophilic plants, so do not do it too early. The best period for planting is After May 15, i.e. after the so -called cold Zośka.
Then the weather outside begins to be stable and there is no risk of frost. At the same time, it is a time when the soil is already well heated. Young plants should be planted on a rain and cloudy day. Before doing this, we must prepare the soil well. It should be dug and Check that its pH is from 5.5 to 6.5.
