We, the marigold seedlings, have been growing comfortably under your careful watch indoors. To ensure our successful move to the great outdoors, we require a period of adjustment known as "hardening off." This process is crucial. Our leaves and stems, accustomed to the gentle indoor light and stable temperatures, are far too tender to handle the full intensity of the sun and the force of the wind directly. About one to two weeks before you plan to transplant us, please begin taking our tray outside to a sheltered, partially shaded spot for just a few hours each day. Gradually increase our exposure to sunlight and breeze each day, and always bring us back inside at night if there is any threat of frost. This gradual introduction thickens our cuticle (our leaf's skin), strengthens our stems, and prevents severe transplant shock that could stunt our growth or even be fatal.
We will tell you when we are ready. Look for us to have developed at least two to three sets of true leaves—these are the leaves that look like classic marigold foliage, not the very first, simpler seed leaves (cotyledons). Our stems should be sturdy and not leggy or spindly. Most importantly, the weather must be right on our behalf. We are very sensitive to cold. The soil must be warm, and all danger of frost must have completely passed. We truly thrive when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C). Planting us too early into cold, damp soil will cause our roots to rot and our growth to cease.
Please be gentle. The ideal time to move us is on a cloudy, calm afternoon or early evening. This protects us from the immediate stress of intense midday sun. First, water us thoroughly in our pots; a well-hydrated plant handles transition much better. Prepare our new home in the garden by digging holes that are slightly wider and deeper than our current root balls. Space the holes about 8-10 inches apart so we have ample room to bush out. Carefully remove us from our containers. If we are in a plastic cell, gently squeeze the sides and tap the bottom to loosen us. If we are in a biodegradable pot, you can plant us pot and all, but gently tear the bottom and score the sides to ensure our roots can easily expand. Place us into the hole, ensuring you plant us at the same depth we were growing in our pot. Firm the soil gently around our base to eliminate large air pockets.
Immediately after settling us into the ground, give us a deep, gentle watering. This serves to settle the soil further around our roots and provides the essential moisture we need to begin establishing ourselves. While we are drought-tolerant once mature, our young root systems are now working hard to spread out into unfamiliar territory. Please keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for the first week or so. You can add a light layer of organic mulch around our base to help retain that soil moisture and suppress weeds that would compete with us for resources. Monitor us for signs of wilting in the first few days; a little is normal, but if we look severely distressed by midday, we might appreciate a little temporary shade.
