The best time of day to plant out your lettuce and greens is in the morning or on a cloudy day. This is because transplanting can be a stressful process for plants, and exposing them to direct sunlight during this time can further stress them out. By choosing to transplant in the morning or on a cloudy day, you can provide some protection for the plants as they make the quick transition from their pots to the soil.
Transplanting in the morning allows the plants to have the entire day to acclimate to their new surroundings. The cooler temperatures in the morning also help reduce stress on the plants, as they are less likely to experience heat stress compared to transplanting in the heat of the day. Additionally, morning transplanting gives the plants a chance to establish their roots before the sun gets too intense.
On the other hand, transplanting on a cloudy day provides a similar advantage. The cloud cover acts as a natural shade, shielding the plants from direct sunlight. This can help prevent wilting and sunburn, which can occur when plants are exposed to intense sunlight immediately after transplanting. Cloudy days also tend to have lower temperatures, which can further reduce stress on the plants.
I personally find that transplanting in the morning or on a cloudy day yields better results. I have had experiences where I transplanted lettuce and greens in the afternoon on a sunny day, and the plants wilted and struggled to recover. However, when I transplanted early in the morning or on a cloudy day, the plants seemed to thrive and adapt more quickly to their new environment.
To summarize, the best time to plant out lettuce and greens is in the morning or on a cloudy day. This allows the plants to avoid direct sunlight and potential heat stress during the delicate transplanting process. By choosing the right time of day, you can give your lettuce and greens the best chance of establishing themselves successfully in their new home.
