[Tobiass]

I am ready to plant my courgettes plants outside in next few days. They have been sitting outside during day to harden off. They are currently in 12cm square pots and have 4-5 true leaves.
Can I pot them straight into 15L container or should I pot up into 2/3L container and keep potting on...

Thanks

[simonwatson]

The only reason to pot into an intermediate sized pot first would be for your own convenience. If you're happy that they're no going to move much (I'd be wary of having them outside at night this early) then just whack 'em into the 15L pots and have done. Keep in mind that if frost is forecast a 15L pot full of damp soil and a scratchy courgette plant isn't the most convenient thing to move.

[gavinjconway]

Tobiass... if you going to plant out in the next few days why do you want to pot them on now? I'd leave them be in their pots then plant out.. But remember that frost kills them stone dead!! So cover them well with fleece as there is still chances of some frost about..

[shoozie]

Tobiass, I don't know much about Cambridge weather in May, but I agree with what's been said before - beware May frost.  I've just sown the first of my courgettes in 3 inch pots and don't bother potting on.  They will come away in time and be planted out early June.  I plant up most courgettes in builders buckets and fill the bottom quarter with well rotted manure.  They can be lifted and moved pretty easily even when fairly mature plants. if I sowed any earlier I'd be nursing them along while really they are vigorous plants when conditions are right.