A tomato seedling that has spent its early life on a bright windowsill meets a different world outside: stronger sun, moving air, and bigger temperature swings. Moving it straight into a garden bed can leave leaves wilted or scorched. Give the plant time to adjust before planting it out.
Ease Into Outdoor Conditions
Begin with a short spell outdoors in a sheltered, partly shaded spot, then bring the seedlings back inside. Over several days, gradually increase their time outside and exposure to direct sun and light breezes. Avoid leaving tender plants out during harsh weather, and keep an eye on the local forecast for cold nights.
Read the Leaves
Check the plants after each outing rather than relying on a fixed schedule. Limp leaves can signal that a seedling is struggling with heat or a lack of water, while pale or scorched patches may mean the change in sunlight was too abrupt. If you notice stress, give the plants a more sheltered day before increasing exposure again.
Plant When Conditions Fit
Before transplanting, make sure the garden soil is workable and the forecast is suitable for tender plants. Water the seedlings before moving them, and settle each one into prepared soil without leaving its root ball dry. Keep checking moisture as the plants establish; a newly planted tomato may need different attention from one already growing strongly.