Transplanting Tiny Seedlings: The Pencil Trick

Transplant seedlings (coleus, etc.) as soon as they have 2–4 true leaves. Use a pencil or dibber to gently lift each seedling with its root ball, then plant in a pre-made hole in moist soil. Firm lightly and water.

Don’t scoop groups with a spoon—roots tear and stems bend. Harden off before moving outdoors. For early sunflowers, accept legginess; they need intense light to stay compact.