Start hardening off 7–14 days before transplanting
Move seedlings outdoors for 1–2 hours on the first day
Place seedlings in a sheltered, shaded location
Bring seedlings back indoors or under protection at night
Increase outdoor time by 1–2 hours each day
Gradually introduce more direct sunlight
Protect seedlings from strong wind, heavy rain, and cold temperatures
Reduce watering slightly, but do not let seedlings dry out completely
Avoid fertilizing during the hardening-off period
Watch for signs of stress such as wilting or leaf scorch
Extend the hardening-off period if weather is cold or unstable
Transplant seedlings after they have adapted to full outdoor conditions
Water seedlings well before and after transplanting