Putting 4" transplants in a bucket of water

Cherokee_Motley · April 25, 2009

Ok, all my seedling have gone from seed cups to 4" pots and are doing great. Over the last week, I have harden them off. I have learned over the years not to plant until May 1 in my area so they are going to spend at least another week on my deck.

Here is my question, rather then water the 4" pots top down with a hose / water can is there a benefit to putting the transplant in a bucket filled with 3" of water and letting it soak for 30-45 seconds?

From my point of view, I should be able to water less since the soil/compost mixture is getting a good soaking and roots will have more reason to fill the pot since there will not be dry spots which happen from top down watering.

I have to many plants to do a traditional "Wicking" bottom water method which is why I am thinking about this approach.

Thanks --

April 25, 2009	#1
Cherokee_Motley Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2006 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 18	Putting 4" transplants in a bucket of water Ok, all my seedling have gone from seed cups to 4" pots and are doing great. Over the last week, I have harden them off. I have learned over the years not to plant until May 1 in my area so they are going to spend at least another week on my deck. Here is my question, rather then water the 4" pots top down with a hose / water can *is there a benefit to putting the transplant in a bucket filled with 3" of water and letting it soak for 30-45 seconds?* From my point of view, I should be able to water less since the soil/compost mixture is getting a good soaking and roots will have more reason to fill the pot since there will not be dry spots which happen from top down watering. I have to many plants to do a traditional "Wicking" bottom water method which is why I am thinking about this approach. Thanks -- __________________ To grow a heirloom tomato is to grow a little taste of history.