When to Pot Up Seedlings
Check true leaves, root space, and transplant timing before moving seedlings into larger pots.
Published by ThriveThyme
seedlings potting up seed starting
Watch the plant as well as the calendar
Seedlings started together may need separating once their true leaves develop. Plants already in individual cells may need more root space before outdoor planting weather arrives. Check the crop's instructions and handle delicate seedlings by a leaf rather than squeezing the stem.
Use a container with drainage and fresh growing mix. Water after moving the seedling. Disturb roots as little as possible, especially for crops that dislike transplanting.
Record the change for each tray
In Sowing Batches, edit the batch and add its potting-up date. Record thinning in the lost-or-thinned count and note whether crowding, poor emergence, or another issue reduced the tray.
If only part of a tray is treated differently, use separate batch names from the start so comparisons remain useful.
Next Steps
Review your seed-starting setup and hardening-off steps. An outdoor target date is a plan; current conditions and plant readiness decide when to move them.