Plant hardening is the process of gradually acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions. This involves exposing them to sunlight, wind, and temperature changes over a period of time. The goal is to strengthen the plants, making them more resilient to stress and improving their chances of survival when transplanted into the garden or landscape. During hardening, plants are typically moved outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the duration and intensity of exposure. This helps them adjust to the harsher environment, reducing the risk of shock and promoting healthy growth once they are fully planted in their new location.