It takes a lot of time from seeds to ready-to-harvest crops, during which certain measures are important. Pricking out is part of this because this is the only way strong and stable plants can develop. With the right basic knowledge, separating is child's play.
How can seedlings be transplanted correctly?
In order to prick seedlings successfully, they should be well fertilized and moist before they are carefully lifted out of the soil with a pricking stick. They can then be placed in prepared plant pots with low-nutrient potting soil and enough space for the roots.
Preparation
When the young plants are in the new soil, they have to invest all their energy in developing and strengthening their roots. During this time, nutrient absorption is restricted. It is therefore important that you only select and isolate the strongest specimens for further breeding.
In order to provide the seedlings with a good basis for he althy growth, it is recommended to give a liquid fertilizer in a highly diluted concentration one day before planting. Water the plants for a few hours before removing them from the planter.
Preparing plant pots
Fill small plastic containers with nutrient-poor potting soil and water the substrate thoroughly. This will cause it to collapse, allowing you to fill up the empty space. Poke holes in the moist soil that will accommodate the entire roots of the seedlings.
Tip
Peat-free pots made of cellulose (€34.00 on Amazon) are ideal as planters because they can be placed in the ground later.
Prick correctly
You shouldn't wait too long with this important step, because the growing seedlings are increasingly competing for light, water and nutrients. Malformations quickly occur. The stems shoot up and become unstable until they eventually snap. The sooner you start separating, the better. As soon as the cotyledons are fully developed, the procedure begins:
- Prick the pricking stick into the soil directly next to the plant
- Pry the roots of the seedling out of the substrate
- Dig up as many pieces of earth as possible and avoid damaging the roots
- Plant directly or store on a damp kitchen towel
If the main root is too long for the new planting hole, you can shorten it slightly. This also stimulates the formation of root branches. Make sure that the root system sits vertically in the soil and does not bend upwards. Gently press down the roots with the pricking wood and close holes in the ground.
