How many times did you plant more than one seed In a cell or pot and you didn’t want to nip off the weaker one to give space to the stronger one?
It might be just me but I feel really bad every time I need to kill a plant even if really small!
I’ve been using this quick pricking tip to separate plants since I was taught by my grandpa.
But first, what exactly does “pricking out” mean? Pricking out is the process of transplanting seedlings from a seed tray or germination container into individual pots or trays. This technique allows seedlings to develop strong root systems and prevents them from competing with each other for nutrients and space.
You will have a nice backup in case things go wrong and you can still gift it to neighbors, friends, and family in case you don’t have enough space.
Reasons You Need To Learn Pricking Out The Seedlings
- Avoid overcrowding- When seedlings are left in overcrowded conditions, their roots can become tangled and restricted. Transplanting them into individual pots allows their roots to spread out freely, encouraging healthy root development.
- Improve air circulation- Overcrowded seedlings are more prone to fungal diseases, such as damping-off, which can quickly wipe out an entire tray of seedlings. By spacing out your seedlings, you reduce the risk of disease and ensure that each plant has access to plenty of fresh air.
- Allows you to select the strongest and healthiest plants- When you transplant seedlings, you can choose to keep only the most vigorous specimens, culling any weak or diseased seedlings. This selective process can help you grow healthier plants and improve the overall productivity of your garden
How To Separate Plants Growing In The Same Pot
- Squeeze around the pot and gently slide off the root mass
- Submerge the roots in water and gently pull them apart
- Get a new pot (recycled is better) of at least double the size of the old pot you used
- Add 50% potting soil, 40% organic compost, 10% worm casting, and a few handfuls of perlite (you can adjust the ratio based on your plant)
- Dig a 1-1.5 inch deep hole
- Optional: sprinkle mycorrhizae (it improves absorption of nutrients and water)
- Place your plant in the hole and gently press around it
- Label with a waterproof marker and water your plant
Follow this method, and you’ll have all your plants without any issues. And if you master this technique, I’m sure that you will soon have a thriving garden!
The most rewarding aspect of pricking out seedlings is the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with watching your tiny seedlings grow into flourishing plants. There’s something truly magical about nurturing life from its earliest stages, knowing that your efforts will soon bear fruit – quite literally!
I swear that there’s no greater joy than watching your garden come to life, one seedling at a time. Just add a little patience, practice, and a whole lot of love.
Happy growing!
