Professor,
I’m newish to growing and I decided to start my plants early indoors under some fluorescent lights. I’m ready to move them outdoors, but I know if I just plant them outside they will get burned by the sun. How exactly do I transition them to the great outdoors?
Thanks,
Q in California
Hey Q,
This process is called “hardening off” and you’re wise to do it. Going from weak fluorescent light and the protection of an indoor environment to the power of the sun and the elements will severely fry or kill marijuana plants. I suggest starting on a mild day by placing the plants in a sheltered location out of the wind for two or three hours. Be sure to give them a good drink of plain water before setting them out, and avoid fertilizing them. Every day, increase their exposure to the sun by an hour or so. The plants will soon adjust. The older growth may get a bit burnt, but as long as the new growth is doing well you’ve accomplished your objective. The average time needed to harden off plants is about a week or so, depending on your local conditions. After you’ve transplanted them into their new garden home give them a mild fertilizer to promote root development.
Good luck!
Professor Lee.
