Shipping Policy

Professional packaging and careful shipping procedures to ensure your plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive.

Shipping Overview

IC Roots Nursery ships live plants throughout the United States using specialized packaging methods designed to protect plant health during transit. We monitor weather conditions and coordinate shipping to ensure plants arrive in optimal condition.

Shipping Methods

Standard Shipping (2-5 Business Days):

Our default shipping method for most plants. Provides reliable delivery with tracking at competitive rates.

Expedited Shipping (1-3 Business Days):

Available for plants that benefit from faster transit or during temperature-sensitive seasons. Additional fees apply.

Priority Shipping (1-2 Business Days):

Recommended for tropical plants, longer distances, or extreme weather periods. Minimizes transit time and exposure to temperature fluctuations.

Free Shipping Threshold:

Free standard shipping on orders over $75 (continental US only)

Packaging Standards

Every plant is prepared using professional nursery shipping procedures:

Protection Measures:

  • Root System Protection: Secure covering to prevent soil loss and root damage
  • Moisture Management: Appropriate watering before shipment to sustain plants during transit
  • Structural Support: Stabilization to prevent shifting and branch damage
  • Insulation: Temperature protection when needed for sensitive varieties
  • Box Selection: Sturdy containers sized appropriately for plant dimensions
  • Labeling: Clear "Live Plant" indicators and orientation arrows

All packaging materials are selected to minimize stress and maximize protection during the shipping process.

Processing Time

Standard Processing: 2-5 business days

Orders are typically processed within 2-5 business days of purchase. Processing includes final plant inspection, preparation, and packaging.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

  • Current order volume
  • Plant availability and readiness
  • Weather conditions at origin or destination
  • Seasonal demand fluctuations
  • Holiday periods

You will receive tracking information once your order ships.

Weather Monitoring

We actively monitor weather conditions at both origin and destination locations to protect plant health during shipping.

Weather Hold Procedures:

We may delay shipments when forecasts show:

  • Temperatures below 32°F (0°C) at destination
  • Temperatures above 95°F (35°C) at destination
  • Severe storms or extreme weather events
  • Extended holiday periods with carrier delays

Weather holds prioritize plant health over shipping speed. We will contact you if your order is delayed due to weather conditions.

Note: Weather holds are for plant protection and do not constitute grounds for order cancellation or refund.

Shipping Restrictions

Geographic Restrictions:

Some plants have shipping restrictions based on USDA regulations, state agricultural rules, or climate suitability.

Currently Restricted:

  • Alaska and Hawaii (limited availability)
  • US Territories (on request)
  • International shipping (not currently available)
  • PO Boxes and APO/FPO addresses (case-by-case)

Seasonal Restrictions:

Certain plants are only shipped during appropriate seasons to ensure successful establishment. Seasonal windows are noted on product pages.

Delivery Requirements

Your Responsibilities:

  • Accurate Address: Provide complete and correct shipping address
  • Availability: Ensure someone can receive the package
  • Prompt Unpacking: Open packages within 24 hours of delivery
  • Immediate Inspection: Check plants upon arrival
  • Timely Care: Water and care for plants according to instructions

⚠️ Important:

Plants left in shipping boxes for extended periods may suffer stress or damage. Unpack immediately upon delivery.

Tracking and Communication

Order Updates:

You will receive email notifications for:

  • Order confirmation
  • Processing updates
  • Shipping confirmation with tracking number
  • Delivery confirmation
  • Any delays or issues

Track your shipment using the provided tracking number through the carrier's website or tracking portal.

Delivery Issues

Common Issues and Solutions:

Package Not Delivered:

Contact the carrier first with your tracking number. If unresolved, contact us within 2 business days.

Damaged Package:

Photograph the box and plants immediately. Contact us within 48 hours with photos.

Wrong Item Shipped:

Contact us within 48 hours with photos of the plant and packaging label.

Shipping Delays:

Most delays are weather-related or carrier issues. We'll work with you to resolve any problems.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All plants are guaranteed to arrive alive and healthy. Issues must be reported within 48 hours of delivery with photos. See our Terms of Service for complete details.

International Shipping

We currently ship within the United States only. International shipping involves complex phytosanitary certificates and import permits that we do not currently support.

If you are interested in international orders, please contact us at contact@icrootsnursery.net to discuss possibilities.

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on:

  • Destination zip code
  • Package weight and dimensions
  • Selected shipping speed
  • Current shipping promotions

Free Shipping: Automatically applied to orders over $75 within the continental United States.

Questions?

If you have questions about shipping, tracking, or delivery, please contact us:

IC Roots Nursery

Email: contact@icrootsnursery.net

General Inquiries: contact@icrootsnursery.net