GuideWhen to Transplant Clones
SectionGrow guide . transplant timing
Read time5 minutes
Reviewed2026.05
LevelBeginner

Grow Guide . transplant timing . G-03

WHEN TO
TRANSPLANT CLONES.

roots out the bottom,
time to pot up.

WHEN TO TRANSPLANT CLONES, cannabis clones

When to transplant clones is a question of reading the plant, not counting days. A clone is ready when the roots have filled the plug and started to poke out the bottom. Most growers see this 7 to 14 days after the clone arrives.

01 . The three visible signs

The three visible signs

Roots, leaves, growth rate.

Lift the plug gently and look at the bottom. White roots should be visible, with several wrapping around the base. Check the leaves: at least 3 to 4 sets of true leaves and perky. Watch the growth rate: actively growing new top sets means ready.

02 . The typical timeline

The typical timeline

7 to 14 days post-arrival.

In ideal conditions, a rooted clone is usually ready 7 to 10 days after arrival. Cooler rooms slow the process. Strain plays a role: Kush-dominant cuts root faster, sativa-dominant cuts can take 12 to 14 days.

03 . Container size

Container size

1 gallon, not 5.

Move the clone into a 1 gallon container as the first step. The small root system cannot effectively drink water from a 5 gallon volume. Pot up to 3 gallon at week 4 of veg.

04 . Transplant procedure

Transplant procedure

Pre-water, hole, place, tamp.

Pre-water the 1 gallon container 24 hours before. Make a hole the size of the plug. Lift the clone with the plug intact. Set it flush with the medium surface. Tamp lightly to seal.

05 . When NOT to transplant

When NOT to transplant

Three flags to wait on.

Do not transplant if: roots are not visible at the bottom of the plug yet, the plant is wilting, or you cannot maintain the same temperature and humidity in the new spot.

FAQ . WHEN TO TRANSPLANT CLONES

Common questions about when to transplant clones.

Asked enough times to belong on the page.
Q.01What if no roots are visible after 14 days?

Check temperature first. Cold root zones stall rooting. Add a heating mat. Check humidity. Contact us for replacement if still no roots after a week.

Q.02Can I transplant directly into the final container?

You can, but it is harder. Better to step up: 1 gallon, then 3 gallon at week 4, then final.

Q.03Should I water after transplant?

Yes, lightly. 100 to 200 mL of plain pH 6 water around the base of the plug.

Q.04How long after transplant before I can feed?

Wait 7 days minimum. Then start with a quarter-strength veg nutrient feed.

Q.05Is transplant shock real?

Yes. Symptoms include 24 to 48 hours of stalled growth, slight yellowing of fan leaves. Recovery is normal.

. Related guides

More grow guides.

Pathogen, care, and lineage topics.
What is HLVd > Clones vs seeds > Clone care on arrival > How long to root > Clones not rooting > Humidity and temperature > Size before transplant > Healthy clone signs > Rooted vs unrooted > Light for clones > Can you clone a clone > All grow guides >