When to bring outside to begin hardening off?

J

Jedidiah578

• May 26, 2017

• #1

This is my first year growing from seed. Just wondering when it is safe to bring them out to get them ready for the great outdoors? How big should plants be? is there a general rule? I have them in a east facing window sill now so they get several hours of direct light now but they are very young and just getting their true leaves.

Thanks for your advice.

 

CAPCOM

• May 26, 2017

• #2

Unless protected, after the last official frost date for your grow zone.

 

Justosmo

• May 27, 2017

• #3

General rule of thumb that is safe almost anywhere is after memorial day.

I built a cheap greenhouse box so I was able to bring them out early March this year.

 

The_NorthEast_ChileMan

• May 27, 2017

• #4

If growing in ground an old rule of thumb, besides the last average frost date, is when the soil temp remains above 50°F. Reason being peppers don't like cold feet (roots) for optimal growth.