Immediately after transplant, plants have relatively low water demand while roots establish in the larger block. Keep the propagation plug hydrated, avoid over-irrigating the block, and gradually adjust irrigation as roots colonize the substrate. Grodan recommends using root-zone data to guide irrigation rather than relying on a fixed schedule.

The goal is a compact, sturdy plant with a strong root system, good lateral branching and short-to-moderate internode spacing. Adequate spacing and uniform light help prevent excessive stretching and support a more uniform canopy going into flower.

For roughly the first 48 hours after transplant, light intensity and climate should remain close to the conditions plants experienced at the end of propagation. After plants acclimate and roots begin establishing in the block, PPFD can be increased gradually toward the target vegetative intensity.

Important measurements include substrate water content, EC and temperature, along with irrigation volume, drip EC, drain volume, drain EC and drain pH. Tracking these conditions alongside plant development helps growers refine irrigation and crop-steering strategies.