Resource Book on Horticulture Nursery Management

A. Hardening of Plants
Hardening off plants is the process, usually undertaken after appropriate initial
growth but before transplanting into the field. The process of hardening plants
involves a transitional period in which plants are left outside during daylight hours
only and in an area where they can be shaded and protected from wind. Watering is
reduced as well during the hardening period. Gradually, the plant is allowed exposure
to an increasing amount of sunlight and allowed to stay out later.
Cycles of Micro Propagation
Young, pampered seedlings that were grown either indoors or in a greenhouse
will need a period to adjust and acclimate to outdoor conditions, prior to planting in the
field. This transition period is called "hardening off". Hardening off gradually exposes
the tender plants to wind, sun and rain and toughens them up by thickening the cuticle on
the leaves so that the leaves lose less water. This helps to prevent transplant shock;
seedlings that languish become stunted or die from sudden changes in temperature.
Hardening off times depends on the type of plants you are growing and the temperature
and temperature fluctuations.
<strong>Resource</strong> <strong>Book</strong> on Horticulture Nursery Management : 36