If you seed started in the Aerogarden and are unsure of the next steps this post will help walk you through the process of transplanting Aerogarden plants to soil.
Seed starting in the Aerogarden is literally one of my favorite ways to start seeds! It’s so easy and convenient, and it produces such healthy and robust plants. But what happens when those plants outgrow their Aerogarden pods? Don’t worry, transplanting them to soil is just as simple.
In this post, we’ll walk through my process of transplanting my Aerogarden plants to soil prior to preparing them for their outside home.
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When should you transplant your Aerogarden plants?
Getting the right timing for transplanting your seedlings is crucial for any type of seed starting, but doubly so for your Aerogarden plants. This is mainly because the hydroponically grown plants will be going in a significantly different medium when you plant them in the soil.
So when is the best time to transplant your Aerogarden plants to soil? You can transplant anytime after the hydroponic plants show their first set of true leaves. I have found great success with I try to transplant when they have at least 2 sets of true leaves but before the plant’s root system is so established that transplanting will cause transplant shock to the plants. This gives them enough time to establish a strong root ball in the hydroponic environment, but not too long that their roots become too tangled and difficult to transplant.
What do you need to transplant Aerogarden Plants?
The transplanting process of moving your Aerogarden plants to soil does not take many tools at all, in fact you can use your hands if you like. But there are a few things that I gather before getting started in order to make the process as smooth and easy as possible:
- Tweezers
- Pots
- Potting soil
- Seed pod plastic holders
Learn more about the Aerogarden Seed Starting System
Step by Step guide to Transplanting Aerogarden Plants to soil
Once you have gathered this simple list of supplies you are ready to move your seedlings from the hydroponic system to their new home.
Step 1: Fill your new containers
The first thing you will want to do is fill your nursery pot or new container with pre-moistened potting soil. You don’t want this mix to be soggy, but you definitely do not want it dry, remember these plants are coming from a state of 100% hydration. Ensure that the potting mix has a good mix of ingredients to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. Additionally ensure you have provided good drainage, too much water can be detrimental to these young seedlings.
Fill the container completely to the top.
Step 2: Create your planting hole
Next, take the grow basket (a seed pod holder you received with the grow seeds at time of purchase) and press it gently into the soil in the center of the pot to make a perfect planting template. This allows you to create a perfectly sized hole for the plants to fit into. Make sure to wiggle the holder back and forth to make the hole slightly wider than the seed pod.
Step 3: Remove your young plants
Now, using the tweezers you can grab the seed pods out of the Aerogarden to transplant them into the new container. You do not need to aggressively yank the plants out, just give them a gentle lift and they should come right out.
Step 4: Transplant into the planting hole
The next step is to place your plant in the pre-created planting hole in the soil. Ensure that the top of the grow sponge is level with the top of your pre-made hole.
Step 5: Backfill
Fill in around your new transplants using the potting soil, making sure to gently pat down around them afterwards to ensure they are secure. This process also helps remove any air pockets that might inhibit good growth for your new transplanted seedlings.
Step 6: Water and monitor
Lastly, you’ll want to water and monitor your newly transplanted Aerogarden plants. Water thoroughly (you can even use a root stimulator like Organic Rev), making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Keep an eye on them over the next few days to ensure they are adjusting well to their new home.
Regularly bottom watering can help decrease the shock plants may experience going from the hydroponic system to soil. Don’t forget to also keep an eye on their lighting and temperature needs as they adjust.
Plants should be placed in a sunny window where they will get enough light for healthy plant growth.
With these easy steps, you can successfully transplant your Aerogarden plants to soil and continue growing healthy and robust plants in your indoor or outdoor garden.
Also Read these Related Tips: Ep. 9 – Successfully Transplant Seedlings after Germination
What Comes next
Once your seedlings transplants have acclimated indoors over about a week or two it’s time to consider the next transition to hardening off outdoors. Hardening off is the process of helping indoor seedlings adjust to outdoor conditions gradually. This is important because they have been in a controlled environment and need time to adapt to potentially harsher conditions like wind, direct sun, and changing temperatures.
Practically this transition period will look like exposing your seedlings to the outdoor elements a little each day, gradually increasing the exposure to the elements over a week or so.
Once plants are hardened off they are ready to be planted in their designated outdoor spot, whether that’s in the ground or in containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant hydroponic sponge in soil?
Yes you can absolutely plant the hydroponic sponge in soil. These are typically made with organic materials that will eventually break down in the soil. I do tend to prefer rockwool because it breaks down far quicker than the Aerogarden sponges.
What kind of soil for Aerogarden plants?
When choosing soil for your Aerogarden transplants you want to choose a high quality potting mix . Look for a mix that is light and well draining, but also has enough organic material to retain moisture. I personally like to use a mix of cococoir, perlite, and earthworm castings for my seedlings.
Do plants grow better in hydroponics or soil?
As far as starts go, I have far more success with starting in the Aerogarden. The plants seem to be more robust, less leggy, and adapt better to the conditions outside.
Overall, hydroponically grown plants tend to grow faster and larger due to the abundance of nutrients and controlled environment. However, with proper care, soil-grown plants can also thrive and produce healthy yields. It ultimately depends on personal preference and growing conditions.
And there you have it friends! Transplanting your Aerogarden plants into soil does not have to be a difficult endeavor. In fact, it can be quite simple with the right techniques and supplies!
