Potting On: When Seedlings Need More Space
As seedlings continue to grow, they need pricking out and potting up from tray sowings or as they outgrow their first pots or cells you may notice roots filling the container or growing out of drainage holes. This is the time to pot them on into a larger container.
While it's best to plant them out in the garden as soon as possible, sometimes you may need to hold them in pots for a bit longer—especially if:
Your seedlings are still little.
You have pests like slugs that might eat young plants.
You’re waiting for better weather to plant them out.
Your garden space is still occupied by other plants.
How to Pot On Seedlings
Choose a slightly larger pot—going too big too soon can lead to excess moisture retention, which may cause root rot.
Add a little potting soil to the base of the new pot—no need to fill it completely, as the plant will take up space.
Carefully remove the seedling from its current pot:
If in a tray with other seedlings, prick it out with a pointed tool (see our guide on pricking out for more).
If in a cell tray, gently push from the bottom.
If in a plastic pot, squeeze or tap the sides to loosen.
If stuck, use a tool to slide around the edge and lift the root ball out.
Place the seedling into its new pot, ensuring it sits at the same depth as before.
Fill in around the roots with fresh soil and gently firm it down.
Water well—again, bottom-watering in a tray or using a fine mist prevents disturbing the soil.
