Hi!
Thank you for buying a plant from Stargazer Hollow Farm! Your new plant was planted by hand in certified organic potting soil from Vermont Compost, and has been hardened off somewhat to try to give it a good start.
Here are some recommended instructions for having the most success with your new plant:
Seedling Care & Transplant Tips
Daily Care While in Pots:
- Water regularly but don’t overwater – keep soil moist, not soggy.
- Provide 12-16 hours of light daily (sunlight or grow lights).
- Rotate pots every day if indoors to prevent leaning toward the light.
- Gently brush the tops or use a fan to strengthen stems and improve airflow.
Knowing When to Transplant:
- Each plant has specific nighttime temperature needs, so I recommend looking this up and then checking the forecast. If you need advice, please reach out.
Hardening Off (1 Week Before Transplanting):
- We have already done the original hardening off steps, and all plants have been exposed to a range of temperatures and are ready to be outside for hours in sunlight – but if you keep them in a protected space for a while, please keep in mind that they will need to be acclimated back to outdoor conditions.
- Protect from wind and cold nights early on. Bring them in if temperatures dip below safe levels.
Transplanting Tips:
- Transplant in the evening or on a cloudy day to minimize shock from heat and sun.
- Water seedlings well a few hours before transplanting.
- Plant at the same depth (or slightly deeper for tomatoes), firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly.
Post-Transplant Care:
- Keep soil moist for the first week to help roots establish.
- Shade newly transplanted seedlings for a day or two if needed, especially in strong sun.
Having any Trouble with Your Plant?
One benefit of buying from a local farm is that you know a farmer! Send an email to stargazerhollow@gmail.com with a description and ideally photo of what is happening, and we will give you some recommendations!