Harding off courgettes and tomatoes?

[therose75]

Hi all

I'm a first time grower...


We've got some courgettes in a plastic green house - I feel they're ready to be planted outside as they have produced flowers and are becoming too big for the greenhouse.

The tomatoes are coming on nicely too!

So, what are the general rules to follow when harding off? 1 week, 2 weeks?

All day and bring in at night? In a shady spot with little wind?

Thanks in advance for any help!

[WendyC]

I would put them outside now, somewhere sheltered. If there is a chilly night forecast, say below 10 degrees, then either cover them with some fleece or pop them back in the greenhouse. After about a week they should be hardened off. I'm assuming you are UK based an the plants are going in a reasonably sheltered garden. If the site is exposed I'd take longer over it.

[therose75]

Thanks Wendy, we're actually now based in Bordeaux so temps here are around 25 in the day and 15 at night.

I suppose avoid direct sunlight is a good idea? I've just moved them onto the balcony (where greenhouse is) as it's nice and sheltered.