Seedling Transplant Shock

Question

I have about 15 organic tomato seedlings that I started from seed. I moved them from the peat moss starter tray and into small soil pots (actually, half water bottles with a hole cut in the bottom for drainage). They have been struggling since I transplanted them, almost like they’re sort of giving it a shot but they can give up at any moment. I bought a 2-oz. container of Schultz’s ‘Take Root’ rooting hormone. Would this help or hurt them? Is there something I can do to improve their outlook? I’ve been growing from seed for the past few years, but this year’s batch doesn’t seem too happy.

Answer 1

The following articles should be of some help to you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/when-to-transplant-a-seedling-plant-into-the-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/what-is-damping-off.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/how-to-harden-off-your-seedlings.htm

I would not apply any root hormone, as this could do more harm than good—burning up what remains of the seedlings.