Frost to Frost · stage 3 of 9
Harden off
Ten to fourteen days of gradually increasing outdoor exposure — an hour of dappled light the first day, working up to a full day by the end. Bring plants in if the forecast dips near frost.
Common mistakes at this stage
- Skipping hardening off entirely and moving plants straight from indoor lights to full outdoor sun. The leaves bleach and burn within a day.
- Trusting the 10-day forecast for a frost call. Check again the night before.
