Pricking out: separating seedlings correctly
When many seedlings stand close together in the seed tray, it is time for pricking out – separating the seedlings into their own pots. This gives each plant enough space, light and nutrients and lets it develop a strong root system. Done correctly, pricking out is easy and the reward is sturdy young plants.
The best time has come as soon as the first true leaves appear after the seed leaves.
In short
- Pricking out = separating seedlings as soon as the first true leaves are there.
- Always hold seedlings by the seed leaves, never by the stem.
- Transplant into more nutrient-rich compost and water in.
- Afterwards, place in shade and shelter for a day or two.
When to prick out?
Prick out as soon as the first pair of true leaves has formed after the two seed leaves – usually one to two weeks after germination. Waiting too long leads to spindly, tangled roots that are hard to separate.
Step by step pricking out
- Prepare: fill new pots with more nutrient-rich (pricking-out) compost and make a hole.
- Loosen: moisten the compost in the seed tray slightly and carefully lift out the seedlings with a dibber or spoon.
- Hold: hold the seedling only by a seed leaf – never by the delicate stem.
- Insert: set into the prepared hole; tomatoes may go deeper (up to the seed leaves) so they form additional roots.
- Press down & water in: press the compost gently and water carefully.
After pricking out
Place the freshly pricked-out plants for one to two days in a bright but not fully sunny spot so they recover. Then they go back to the bright window. Water moderately and start hardening off a few weeks later.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always have to prick out?
No – anyone who sows one seed per cell in modular trays can skip pricking out. With dense sowing in trays, however, it is important.
Why not hold by the stem?
The stem is the seedling's lifeline; even slight pressure can crush it irreparably. A seed leaf, by contrast, can grow back if necessary.
Tip
Water the sowing lightly before pricking out – from moist, loose compost the fine roots come away much more gently.
Caution
Never hold seedlings by the stem and do not let the roots dry out – the delicate seedlings often do not survive either.
No patience for pricking out? Our strong young plants are already separated and well-rooted – just plant them.