How often should I water after transplanting?

Correct watering after transplanting helps prevent root shock and encourages a healthy start. Seedlings require regular moisture for the vital first week after they are planted. I learned this the hard way, as inconsistent watering caused the pepper plants to wilt, despite the soil being properly prepared. Daily watering helps the root system become established in the new soil.

Modify your watering schedules using temperature cues! On days when the temperature reaches above 85°F, increase your hydration quantity by 25%. Conversely, in cooler weather, you can reduce your watering frequency when the temperature dips below 60°F. In temperate weather, I keep a moisture meter nearby to prevent incorrect watering, which is common in unpredictable spring-like weather.

Identify hydration signals correctly. A little midday wilting recovers in the evening if the plant is watered properly. If it is drooping all day, water more. Yellow leaves suggest overwatering. I keep a watering journal to track my plants' responses to watering, which helps dial in my watering schedules.

Transition watering should be done gradually, starting the week after planting. Instead of watering multiple times in small amounts, water less often but more thoroughly per watering. Watering session. This will encourage deeper root growth. My tomato roots are now 12 inches deep because of adopting the new watering method, which has increased drought resistance from the Deeper roots.

Steer clear of common watering mistakes. Don't allow seedlings and seeds to dry out completely between waterings. Don't water when the sun is directly overhead. Watering shallowly can promote the development of roots at or near the soil surface, making them more susceptible to heat. A drip system took care of those issues for me and dramatically increased my survival rates.

Read the full article: When to Transplant Seedlings: Ultimate Guide