Seeds or Transplants? Which Crops Have Sensitive Roots

By: Angela Judd | September 11, 2024

Should you plant from seeds or transplants? The answer is, “It depends on the crop.” When starting seeds, it’s essential to know which seedlings can tolerate root disturbance and which have sensitive roots and need extra care when transplanting.

Some plants, like peppers and tomatoes, handle being moved and separated quite well, while others, such as dill and cilantro, dislike having their roots disturbed and may fail to thrive or bolt if not handled delicately. This guide will help you navigate whether to use seeds or transplants.

Seeds or Transplants? Which Crops Have Sensitive Roots

Seedlings with Sensitive Roots: Treat them Carefully!

Certain plants develop tap roots or sensitive roots that can be easily damaged when transplanted. These seedlings prefer to be directly sown into the garden whenever possible. When their roots remain undisturbed, these plants grow faster and are stronger. Deciding between seeds or transplants is vital for these plants.

Herbs and Vegetables with Sensitive Roots (click on the link for growing guides):

These plants generally do best when directly sown (planted from seeds), not transplanted, because they develop long taproots or have sensitive or delicate feeder roots.

If transplanting is necessary, start these seedlings in soil blocks that can be planted directly into the garden without disturbing the roots. Handle the root ball as little as possible. Gently transplant the entire root ball without shaking off the soil.

Be an informed consumer. If you see a six-pack of carrot transplants at the local garden center, don’t buy them! Instead, buy a package of carrot seeds. The carrots will grow better, and they’ll be less expensive, too! Evaluate whether to use seeds or transplants for each crop you grow.

Seedlings That Tolerate Transplanting

On the other hand, certain seedlings handle root disturbance more easily. Their roots are not as sensitive. These plants can often be divided or separated if multiple seeds are planted in the same cell. They tend to bounce back quickly after transplanting, making them excellent candidates for starting indoors. Choosing between seeds or transplants is less critical for these plants.

Herbs and Vegetables Tolerant of Transplanting:

These plants have a more fibrous root system or are generally more robust, so using a transplant instead of seeds can give you a head start. You can safely plant them in cells or flats and then pot them up or move them into the garden when it’s time to plant outside. Whether you use seeds or transplants, they tend to handle both methods well.

Understanding the root sensitivity of different seedlings can make a big difference in the success of your garden. Knowing which plants are more delicate and which are more forgiving helps you decide whether to start from seed or transplant. Your plant’s roots will thank you!