Pricking Out Seedlings

Seedling Care

Pricking out means moving crowded seedlings from a seed tray into individual cells or pots. It gives each plant room for roots and leaves, reducing competition before planting out. The job is straightforward when seedlings are young, compost is moist and plants are handled gently by their leaves rather than their vulnerable stems.

How to do it

Water the seed tray a short time beforehand so compost holds together without becoming muddy. Fill modules or small pots with moist peat-free multipurpose compost and make a hole with a dibber. Lift one seedling at a time by easing beneath its roots with the dibber. Hold it by a seed leaf or true leaf, never by the stem. Set it into the new hole at the same depth, or slightly deeper for leggy tomato seedlings. Gently settle compost around the roots, then water lightly to close air gaps. Keep newly pricked-out plants in bright, sheltered conditions for a day or two, away from strong sun, before returning them to normal growing conditions.

When to do it

Prick out when seedlings have developed their first pair of true leaves, after the initial seed leaves. This is commonly one to three weeks after germination, depending on temperature and crop. Do not delay until roots are tightly tangled. Spring sowings are most often handled indoors, but late-summer sowings may need the same treatment.

Tips

Work in small batches so roots never dry out. Use a clean dibber and containers with drainage. If seedlings are extremely crowded, lift a small clump and separate them gently on the compost surface. Label pots as you go. A brief check after watering helps identify plants that have been left loose or buried too deeply.

Pricking Out Seedlings: frequently asked questions

How does pricking out seedlings work?

Water the seed tray a short time beforehand so compost holds together without becoming muddy.

When should I do pricking out seedlings?

Prick out when seedlings have developed their first pair of true leaves, after the initial seed leaves.

What are some tips for pricking out seedlings?

Work in small batches so roots never dry out.

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General guidance for UK gardens. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.