How to Harden Off Seedlings Before You Plant Them—and Why It's So Important

How to Harden Off Seedlings Before You Plant Them—and Why It's So Important

Acclimating your plants to the outdoors requires a mix of patience and a little know-how.Credit: Elena Medoks / Getty ImagesWhether you start seedlings indoors or purchase young plants from your local nursery, come spring, it can be tempting to move them immediately into the garden. However, to ensure your tender seedlings grow into strong, healthy plants they need to be properly hardened off before they can be transplanted outdoors. This simple…