Pricking out seedlings is one of those jobs gardeners either love or hate! Some find the process of carefully transplanting vulnerable root systems therapeutic and enjoyable, other’s see it as one massive chore! I think this depends on a couple of factors. Firstly, how thickly you’ve sown the seeds (a big clump of tangled seedlings is never fun!) and secondly, how patient you are as a person.
I’ve gotten a little better at it over the years and my confidence has improved when handling them too. I thought I would share my top tips for pricking out seedlings with you all, all discovered from trial and error.
TOP TIPS FOR PRICKING OUT SEEDLING
- Give your seedlings a good whack! Pick up the container and smack it on the table. This loosens the compost making it easier to prick them out.
- Select your victim. Choose a seedling that has developed it’s true leaves. That means it has more than 2!
- Using a thin stick (such as a lollipop stick or a kebab stick) gently prod at the compost around your victim until the roots are loosened.
- Always hold your seedling by the leaves. Never the stem. This will ensure it doesn’t snap and you don’t disturb the roots.
- Gently tease your seedling out and place straight into it’s new home.
- Fill in with compost but don’t compact too tightly. Give them a chance to spread out in their new container!
- Water, place on a sunny window sill, and hope that they don’t die!
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You must have great experience in gardening. The more I appreciate the post. I read every line:) This is awesome.