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Step 1
If you have been growing your seedlings under artificial lights for a time, then the first step to harden off plants is to get them exposed to some real sunshine. Simply move your plants from under the artificial lights into a window sill where they can experience sunlight for couple of days.
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Step 2
Next, you can begin placing your seedlings outdoors. To harden off plants means that you are helping them adjust to their new environmental conditions, so it is important to do everything slowly and carefully. Begin by placing the seedlings in the shade for couple of days. It is not a good idea to allow the seedlings to be exposed to direct sunlight at this point because it may damage them.
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Step 3
After a few days in the shade, you can begin moving your seedlings into the sunlight for parts of the day. Eventually, they can be in direct sunlight all day. Pay close attention to your plants for any signs that they are stressed.
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Step 4
The final step in hardening off your plants is to help ease their transition from their temporary pots into permanent garden soil. Certain plants like tomatoes or peppers may benefit from being covered for a few days with cloches. A simple cloche can be made by cutting off the bottom of a gallon milk jug. Be careful not to leave the cloches on the plants if it is going to be very hot because they will bake! After removing the cloches permanently, your plants should be officially adjusted to their new environment and hopefully they will thrive!
