“Earlier crop maturity that is experienced when transplants are used means that growers will have an extended harvest window,” says Robert Spencer, with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. “An extended harvest means increased returns due, especially when the grower also realizes improved yields and crop quality.”

For varieties that require longer seasons, transplanting sets can make a huge difference, especially in parts of Canada where the growing season is shorter.

“When transplanting, reducing stress on the young plants is extremely important,” says Spencer. “Growers should ensure that transplants have a good root system before they are moved. This means that the plants are not transplanted until they are of the appropriate age and size, are not too big or too old, as younger plants tend to establish faster and experience less shock.”

Transplants must be properly hardened off before being moved. Hardening off is a process designed to allow plants to prepare and adjust to the harsher environmental conditions outside of the greenhouse.

Hardening off may involve:

• allowing plants to dry out slightly
• reducing fertilizer
• placing in direct sunlight or outside during day
• reducing or increasing temperature for two to five days depending on planting conditions
• ensuring that transplants have root ball moisture topped up before planting

“Plant transplants at the proper depth and firmly pack the soil around the root ball,” says Spencer. “Plants should receive a dose of high phosphorus water-soluble fertilizer after planting. It is important to water-in after planting as this ensures that there is adequate moisture and soil to root contact.”

Care and caution at this tender stage to avoid removing or damaging roots, can make a significant difference in plant survival. Planting should take place on calm, cool, overcast days as opposed to hot, dry and windy days. Failure to reduce transplant stress can minimize the benefits that come from using transplants.