Pricking out and potting on
When seedlings are big enough to handle, move them into individual pots to prevent overcrowding (RHS). Loosen the mix, lift each seedling by a leaf (never the stem), make a hole with a dibber or pencil, lower the roots in, firm lightly and water.
Planting out
- Check the forecast and your last frost date; tender crops wait until frost has passed (planner).
- Harden off for two to three weeks first (guide).
- Choose a dull, mild day, or plant in the late afternoon or evening so the plants settle in overnight.
- Water the seedlings in their pots, plant at the same depth they grew (tomatoes are an exception: they can go deeper, as they root along buried stem), firm, and water again.
- Look for slugs and snails and remove them; protect with netting or fleece if needed (RHS).
Aftercare
Water regularly for the first couple of weeks while roots establish, and shade from fierce sun if plants wilt.
Crops that dislike transplanting
Some, such as coriander, dill, parsnip and carrots, resent root disturbance and are best sown where they are to grow (sowing outdoors).