The pricking out method is transferring little seedlings from densely sown seed trays or containers to individual pots or cell-trays
filled with potting soil, therefore providing them with more nutrients and space to develop stronger roots and an overall healthy plant (Check out our YouTube Seed Starting Guide for detailed information on how to start your own seeds and make your own seed starting mix). Transplanting seedlings this way is a technique used by many gardeners (including us) to start the seeds indoors and grow healthy young plants.
In this post, we will explore the benefits of pricking out method, and give step-by-step instructions for transplanting seedlings successfully.
Benefits of Pricking Out Method:
Pricking out young seedlings has many advantages over leaving them to grow in crowded conditions (e.g. the tray filled with seed starting mix):
- Prevents Overcrowding: Seeds sown closely together in a seed tray or another container will start competing for light, water, and nutrients as soon as they brake ground, resulting in weak growth and poor overall development. Transplanting seedlings into individual containers ensures that each plant has plenty of space to grow on its own.
- Promotes Strong Root System: Transplanting seedlings into their own cells or pots gives room to each plant to establish its own root system as it now does not have to compete for space and nutrients with other seedlings resulting in healthier and more vigorous growth.
- Reduces Transplant Shock: Transplant the seedlings when they are young to lower the risk of stunted growth, nutrient deficiency and root entanglement because the younger the seedlings the more adaptable and resilient they are. Each plant should be transplanted before it overgrows its current container to ensure a smoother transition to either the garden or another environment.
Pricking Out Method Step-by-Step Guide:
Below are step-by-step instructions to transplant you young seedlings from an overcrowded environment using the pricking out method:
- Seedlings Stage and Size: Prick out the seedlings after they have developed their first set of leaves and are large enough to handle, about 1” tall is a perfect size. They should be watered lightly the day before to ensure moist but loose soil and ensure easy handling. It is best to handle them by leaves and not to touch their roots during this process.
- Prepare Containers: Fill cell-trays or individual pots with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure that the pots are clean and have drainage holes.
- Prepare Tools: You do not have to purchase special tools for this step but you need something to dig the seedling with such as a pencil, small wooden stick or an old utensil.
- Loosen Soil: Slowly and gently loosen the soil around the base of each seedling in the seed tray with your small tool a small tool being ever so careful not to damage its delicate roots.
- Lift Seedlings: Using your fingers, pick up the seedling by one of the leaves rather than its stem or roots as they are more prone to brake.
- Plant Seedlings: Using your little tool such as a dibber or a pencil, make a small hole in the soil of the individual pot and gently place the seedling into it. Press the soil around the seedling gently but firmly.
- Water Seedlings: Once you have planted your seedling, water them so that they now have contact with new, moist soil. Water them enough but do not overwater because too much moisture can lead to root rot or damping off.
- Provide Care: Besides watering, your newly transplanted seedlings need to be in a warm, well-lit location, but avoid direct sunlight until they are well established. If your location does not have enough light, consider adding more light. Monitor the seedlings daily.
By following the above guidelines you can ensure that your young plants have the best
start for healthy growth and a successful harvest later on. The pricking out method is a fast, space-saving, simple and effective way to grow healthy plants for a thriving garden.
For a more detailed information on transplanting the seedlings check our YouTube video Transplanting Seedlings: Pricking out Method,
Happy gardening!
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