Transplanting AeroGarden plants to soil is very easy. I’ve done it successfully dozens of times, and I’m going to tell you all you need to know in this guide.
Introduction to Transplanting AeroGarden Plants to Soil
AeroGarden is one of the most popular hydroponic systems available on the market today. However, there may come a time when you want to transplant your AeroGarden plants to soil.
Perhaps you want to move your plants outdoors, or maybe you simply want to switch to traditional soil-based gardening.
I primarily use my AeroGarden for growing perennial plants for display in my outdoor landscaping. So, more often than not, I have to eventually transplant my hydroponic plants.
Using the method I’m going to describe, I estimate around 85% – 90% of my transplants are successful. Not bad!
Let’s get into the guide.
Step 1: Choose the Right Soil
The first step in transplanting from AeroGarden to soil is to choose the right type of soil. Look for a high-quality garden or potting soil that contains a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
This mixture will provide good drainage and aeration. And, both are essential for healthy plant growth.
You can also add organic matter, such as compost or worm castings, to your soil mix to provide additional nutrients for your plants.
Have an understanding of what kind of soil your plant likes. This information is easily found online.
For example, if your plant likes clay soil, don’t try planting it in pure sand. This will sound obvious to some, but not everyone is aware plants have soil preferences.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil and Planting Location
Get your soil and planting spot ready before disrupting your plants hydro home!
If you are planting into a container, make sure it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and allow room for growth. Pour in soil, and make a hole for your plant.
If planting in the ground, make a hole twice as large as the root ball and mix in some of the soil mixture discussed above.
Tip: Don’t forget your watering plans! Your plant is going to be used to drinking a lot and will need regular water to adjust to growing in soil!
Step 3: Remove the Plant from the AeroGarden and Separate It From the Grow Basket
This step and the next step are the most important and what ultimately sets you up for success.
To remove the plants from the AeroGarden, gently lift the grow tray out of the unit and carefully remove the plants from their holes.
Be sure to handle the plants gently to avoid damaging the delicate roots. You may need to do some untangling if you have big plants.
Tip: I will often use a hair comb to gently untangle the roots. Gently run the comb down away from the basket to work knots loose.
Now , if you have not already, you need to cut the plastic grow basket so that you can take the plant and sponge out of the basket. Just make a cut on the top ring, and snip one of the plastic rails.
Next, slowly work the sponge out of the basket and begin working the basket down through the roots. It may help to use a comb to gently untangle the roots.
Don’t be too aggressive, but it is normal to lose some roots, especially with big plants that have tangled roots.
Tip: I always cut my plastic grow baskets before I plant my garden in anticipation of transplanting! Something to think about for next time.
Root stimulators contain ingredients, such as plant hormones, vitamins, and minerals, that help promote root development and improve the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil.
To apply root stimulator, soak the plant’s roots in a solution of the root stimulator just before planting.
Some root stimulator also comes in a powder or gel form that can be applied directly to the roots.
Tip: If possible, use a utility knife to tear the sponge away from the roots. You essentially want to “bare root” transplant your plant.
Step 4: Transplant the Plants
I always make a habit of filling the hole halfway and giving it water. This increases the odds of the soil packing around the roots and gives the plant a quick drink.
Finish filling the hole. Make sure the soil is firmly packed around the base of the plant to provide support and stability. Water the plant thoroughly, and cover the soil with a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Step 5: Provide Proper Care for the New Transplant
After transplanting, it’s important to provide your plants with proper care to ensure their continued health and growth.
Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Do not be surprised if you see some wilting the first few days following transplant. This is typical.
Tip: If you are having hot, sunny weather, be sure to provide some shade for your new transplants while they are getting acclimated. Heat can be a huge stressor!
And, remember, plants first grow new roots before growing new leaves. Don’t panic if you don’t see new growth right away!
That’s all there is to it!
Transplanting AeroGarden plants into soil is a simple and straightforward process that can be accomplished with these easy steps.
Transplanting from your AeroGarden will open up new gardening opportunities, and I guarantee you will enjoy your hydroponic system even more.
Looking to learn more about how to get the most out of your AeroGarden? We wrote a guide to an AeroGarden feature a lot of people don’t know about – AeroGarden Vacation Mode. Check it out!
