Certain vegetables can tolerate our cold spring temperatures as long as they have been acclimated by gradually increasing their exposure to the sunlight and outdoor temperature. This process is called “hardening off” and usually takes about one week.
Reduce watering up to one week before hardening off. To begin hardening off move transplants outside for a portion of each day. First place them in a shady location protected from the wind. Over the week, gradually increase the plants’ exposure to the elements. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and onions that have been hardened off can withstand temperatures near 20 degrees F. Lettuce plants can tolerate temperatures in the mid 20s. (Cynthia Domenghini)
Reduce watering up to one week before hardening off. To begin hardening off move transplants outside for a portion of each day. First place them in a shady location protected from the wind. Over the week, gradually increase the plants’ exposure to the elements. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and onions that have been hardened off can withstand temperatures near 20 degrees F. Lettuce plants can tolerate temperatures in the mid 20s. (Cynthia Domenghini)
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