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Hardening Off: Why Homegrown Seedlings Die Outdoors

Seedlings thrive inside, die in garden = no hardening off. Ohio clay also a factor. Harden 1 week: 3 hrs shade day 1, 6 hrs day 2, add sun day 3, double daily to 24 hrs. Or use cold frame. Nursery plants pre-hardened.

Amend clay with compost/peat/leaves. Transplant Memorial Day (not May 15). Your soil’s likely fine—acclimation is the gap.

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