When my seeds first started sprouting we had that exciting bit of very warm weather. Since I don't have lights and my south windows aren't very big, I decided to take my trays out. I bring them in for the evening if it's going to get below 50F (though I did forget and let them stay out one night when it got down to 42F). It's very windy & sunny where they live and I don't use covers (they always blow off anyway).

Well, my tomato seedlings are doing great, just about time to start thinning them. The chilis couldn't handle the one cold night so I've started them over again. Other things are more cold tolerant and doing well. Surprisingly that includes my morning glories & moon flowers.

I have two questions really. First, has anyone else used this method to avoid a gradual harden off? Second, if we get a cold spell, how long could they stay inside before I would have to do the gradual harden off?