How to use a garden trowel to transplant a seedling?

29th February 2020


	How to use a garden trowel to transplant a seedling


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			There are two methods for transplanting a seedling. Which one you use depends on whether you are moving it to a new pot or into the garden. The conditions the seedling will face once it has been planted outside are a lot harsher than if it is simply moved to a new, larger pot.

			Transplanting into a new pot
			Step 1 – Water soil To begin you will need to prepare the potting compost or soil for the seedling. Begin by soaking the compost or soil with warm water up to one hour before transplanting.



			Step 2 – Dig out seedling Using a transplanting garden trowel, carefully dig out the seedling from its pot using the thin tip of the blade to hold the roots.

			Step 3 – Place in new pot Hold the seedling by one of its leaves within a new pot while you fill around the roots with the dampened soil. When the roots have been covered, firm the soil gently with your finger tips.

			Transplanting into the garden
			Step 1 – Prepare seedling Two weeks before you transplant a seedling into the garden you will need to prepare it for outdoor conditions. Therefore you will have to stop feeding the seedling and water it less frequently.

			Another way to prepare the seedling is a process called ‘hardening off’. This involves it being placed outside each day before transplanting to help it to acclimatise to the lower temperatures.

			Step 2 – Prepare the ground Use a transplanting garden trowel to dig a small hole, slightly larger than the seedling, in well turned soil.

			Step 3 – Plant the seedling Gently place the seedling into the hole until the base of the stem is level with the ground. Then refill the hole with the soil until it covers the roots and the base of the stem. When it is full, place your hands around the base of the seedling, and slowly press down on the soil to create a shallow dip. This enables the seedling to collect rain water.



			Some seedlings, such as beans or large flowers, can be planted while still in their original containers to avoid any damage to the roots. Containers made from biodegradeable products, such as newspaper, allow the roots to grow out through the sides.