Plant care and shipping

Plant Care & Shipping

Information to help you understand what to expect when your plants arrive and how to support healthy establishment.

What to Expect Upon Arrival

Plants shipped via standard carriers will experience some stress during transit. This is normal and expected. Most healthy plants recover quickly when given appropriate conditions after arrival.

Unpack immediately. Remove plants from shipping containers as soon as possible after delivery. Inspect packaging and plants carefully.

Initial watering. Water thoroughly if soil feels dry. If plants arrive with damp root systems, allow drainage before placing in permanent locations.

Acclimation period. Place plants in partial shade for 3-7 days before moving to full sun locations. This reduces shock and allows roots to begin functioning in new soil.

Some leaf drop or minor wilting is common in the first week. This typically resolves as plants acclimate. Persistent problems should be reported promptly.

Basic Care Requirements

Watering

Water deeply but infrequently. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Overwatering causes more problems than underwatering in most situations. Adjust frequency based on temperature, humidity, and plant type.

Sun Exposure

Most edible plants require full sun (6+ hours direct sunlight daily) for optimal production. Some varieties tolerate partial shade but may produce less fruit. Confirm requirements for specific plants before placement.

Soil & Drainage

Well-draining soil is critical. Most fruit trees, berries, and vines cannot tolerate standing water. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter or use raised beds. Container plants require quality potting mix with adequate drainage holes.

Feeding

Wait 4-6 weeks after planting before applying fertilizer. Young plants need time to establish roots before additional nutrients. Use balanced, slow-release fertilizers appropriate for the plant type.

Climate Considerations

Plant descriptions include general climate suitability, but local conditions vary significantly. Research specific hardiness zones and microclimate factors before ordering.

Tropical plants require protection from freezing temperatures. They can be grown in containers and moved indoors, or planted in ground in frost-free zones.

Cold-hardy varieties tolerate freezing but may still benefit from protection during establishment. Young plants are more vulnerable than mature specimens.

Contact us before ordering if you're uncertain about climate suitability. We can provide guidance but cannot guarantee success in marginal conditions.

Shipping Preparation Standards

All plants undergo systematic preparation before shipment:

  • Final inspection to confirm health and quality standards
  • Root system protection using appropriate methods for plant type
  • Secure packaging to minimize movement during transit
  • Weather-appropriate timing to avoid extreme temperature exposure

We ship via standard carriers with delivery typically within 3-7 business days depending on distance. Expedited shipping is available for additional cost when necessary.

Realistic Expectations

Live plants are not manufactured products. Variables including genetics, growing conditions, handling, and establishment care all affect outcomes. We control what we can and maintain clear quality standards, but cannot guarantee specific growth rates, production timing, or ultimate success after plants leave our care.

Our goal is to provide healthy, well-prepared plants with a reasonable expectation of success when given appropriate growing conditions and care.

Questions About Care or Shipping?

We provide guidance about plant care, climate suitability, and shipping procedures. Contact us with specific questions before ordering.

Contact Us