Question
Hi there!

The last few years, I've been trying to do a garden outside. However, my seedlings do awesome inside, thriving and becoming rather large. Until I put them in the garden, and then within a week, they're all dead. I don't know what I'm doing wrong!! I use peat-pots so there's no transplant shock, and I make sure to water well when I plant them.

I don't have any problems transplanting the pre-grown plants from the nursery, but many of the plants I want to grow are seed-only, or the specific variety that I want isn't available as a plant. Can you please help and advise?

Thank you,
Amanda from Chillicothe, Ohio

Answer
Amanda, there are many factors that could be causing your plants to die prematurely. The most likely is poor soil. I, too, am from Ohio. Our state's land is comprised primarily of clay. Most seedlings will not survive in clay. That is why it is important to amend the garden with organic matter, such as compost, peat, and shredded leaves.

You also mention that your plants are not suffering from transplant shock. When you grow your own seedlings from seed, you must harden the seedlings off for one week prior to planting. This entails gradually acclimating them to our spring conditions. Many Ohio gardeners transfer their seedlings to cold-frames. These structures act like miniature greenhouses. If this is not practical, then you must acclimate them slowly by placing them in a sheltered position, such as under a covered porch or patio, for three hours the first day, six the second, and then gradually exposing them to sunlight for a few hours on day three. You can then start doubling the time outdoors until you reach 24 hours. It will then be safe to place them in the garden.

Finally, planting time is crucial here in Ohio. I used to plant on May 15th, but had very inconsistent results due to the fluctuating temperatures and wind conditions. I have since delayed all transplanting until Memorial Day. This has proven successful with few, if any, casualties.

Given the fact the seedlings from the nursery survive, I have to believe your soil is good, and that the most likely problem is improper acclimation. Keep in mind that nursery plants have been hardened off for several weeks. They are well conditioned for transplanting by the time they are purchased.

I hope this answers your question. Good luck, and have a great weekend.

Regards,

Mike