The initial leaves that emerge when a seed germinates are called the cotyledon leaves. They tend to be roundish and don’t look like the leaves of a mature plant. Their purpose is to provide energy for the seedling while it is in the process of growing roots, a stem and leaves. Eventually the energy in the cotyldeon leaves will be used up and they will fall off the plant.
Once the seedlings have developed true leaves (they look like the leaves of a mature plant, only smaller) they are ready to be transplanted into their own pots.
When the seedlings are ready to be transplanted, as these bok choi seedlings are, I use the method described in James Crockett’s Flower Garden book.
The seedlings are delicate at this stage so it is important to handle them the least amount posible.
When the moderately moist soil hits the bench top it breaks apart releasing the seedlings.
It is important to avoid touching the stem or roots, as the presure from my fingers could damage them.
After the seedlings have all been transplanted into individual pots I then give them a bit of transplant solution and set them on the greenhouse bench to grow on. In a month they will be ready to move outside to the cold frame to harden off.
New Hampshire Gardening 