Missing even a single watering could result in the death of many seedlings. The number of waterings may need to be increased during adversely hot and dry conditions. Hardening Off Hardening off is the practice of preparing plants for the shock of transplanting by reducing the application of water and fertilizer and exposing them to more sun. This should be done gradually over a few weeks before planting. Growth will slow down and the plants will be sturdier and better prepared for being planted out.
Most plants establish and grow better when planted out as sun-hardened seedlings.
Repotting If you can t plant when the seedlings are ready, then repotting may be necessary. This should be done before the plants become pot-bound. Select a pot which is wider and deeper then the existing pot. Remove the seedling from the pot with the potting medium intact, and set it into the new, larger pot, taking care not to tangle or kink the roots. Fill the space between the root ball and the side of the new container with new potting medium, press it in firmly and then water.