Pricking out seedlings — why and when to do it
In short: Pricking out means transplanting seedlings to their own containers when they have 2–3 true leaves. It provides space, stronger roots and better preparation for planting out in the ground.
Pricking out — small operation, big effect
You take a seedling from a densely planted box and transplant it to its own container. That's it.
Why prick out? Seedlings germinate densely. At 2 true leaves they start competing for water and nutrients. Pricking out gives each plant space.
When to prick out? The signal: 2–3 true leaves. Small seedlings tolerate transplanting better than large ones.
Step by step:
- Day before, water the box abundantly
- Prepare 7–10 cm containers with seedling compost
- Make a hole with a pencil or stick
- Lift the seedling from below — never grab by the stem
- Place slightly deeper than it was growing
- Press down and water immediately
After pricking out: 2–3 days in diffused light. Normal stress, passes quickly.
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