Are your plants in need of a little TLC? Our garden center experts are here to help!
So, you just snagged the perfect plant from our online shop – maybe a beautiful calathea or a trailing pothos. It arrives at your door, carefully packaged, and ready to bring some life to your home. But before you rush to find the perfect spot, there are a few key steps to take to make sure your new friend thrives in its new space. Here’s your essential guide to aftercare for shipped plants.
Unbox with Care
First things first, free your plant from its cardboard containment! Carefully remove any packing materials, in our case, biodegradable wood shavings. Check the soil moisture – If the soil feels very dry, give it a quick soak until water runs out of the drainage holes.
Lighten Up, Sunshine Seeker
Plants travel for days, often in complete darkness. Resist the urge to place your new friend right in the brightest window. Think about the kind of light it would naturally receive in its original habitat. Does it prefer bright, indirect sunlight like a happy snake plant or dappled light like a leafy monstera? A few days of gentle acclimation will help your plant adjust to its new light levels.
Breathe Easy (and Avoid Repotting Right Away)
Those travel boxes can get pretty stuffy. Give your plant a chance to breathe by placing it in a well-ventilated spot with good air circulation. Avoid placing it directly next to a drafty window or air vent. Repotting can be stressful for plants, so hold off on moving it to a new pot for at least a week or two. This gives it time to adjust to its new environment before undergoing another major change.
Water Wisely
Traveling can be dehydrating, but overwatering a newly arrived plant is a recipe for disaster. Check the soil moisture again after a few days. If the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, it’s time for a drink. Water thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes, but be sure the pot has drainage to prevent root rot.
Bonus Tip: Mist It Up!
Especially if your plant seems like it came from a particularly humid journey, giving it a light misting with a spray bottle can help it perk up. This is especially helpful for plants that naturally thrive in higher humidity environments.
Every plant is different, so researching your specific plant’s needs is key. With a little TLC and these simple aftercare steps, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving indoor jungle (or at least a happy, healthy houseplant!). If you questions about your new plant, feel free to text us at (615) 244-8949, and we will be able to help answer any questions!
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