Received a Plant by Mail? Here’s What to Do Next

Received a Plant by Mail? Here’s What to Do Next

Receiving a plant through the mail is always an exciting moment, but it requires some special attention to help it settle into its new home. Here are the steps you should follow to ensure your plant's healthy transition.

Step 1: Unpacking and Initial Assessment

  • Bring It Inside Quickly
    • Upon delivery, promptly bring your plant indoors to shield it from outdoor conditions and temperature fluctuations.
  • Careful Unwrapping
    • Gently remove all packaging. Expect to see some bent leaves or minor damage due to shipping; this is normal and your plant will recover with time.

Step 2: Checking Plant Health

  • Inspect for Yellow Leaves
    • It's common for some lower leaves to turn yellow during the shipping process. This isn't usually a cause for concern; simply trim them off or let them fall naturally. If most leaves are yellow, it could indicate a more serious issue.
  • Examine Variegated Leaves

    • Variegated plants may have some browning on the lighter areas. This is normal and can be minimized with proper care.

Step 3: Acclimating Your Plant

  • Temperature and Humidity

    • Try to replicate the nursery conditions of at least 70°F, with 75°F being ideal, and humidity levels of 70% or higher. Avoid placing the plant in extremely humid environments initially, as this can cause root rot due to stress and difficulty in adapting to the new conditions.
  • Light Exposure

    • Start with medium or indirect light exposure. Gradually increase the light levels as your plant adjusts, avoiding direct sunlight at first to prevent stress.

Step 4: Watering Guidelines

  • Depending on the medium your plant is in, its watering needs will vary. Here's how to handle each type:

    1. Sphagnum Moss

      • Check the moisture level. If the medium is dry, water lightly from the top. If it feels moist, wait until it dries out before watering again. After acclimation, water more thoroughly as needed.
    2. Plug

      • Our plugs are specifically designed to retain the optimal amount of water for your tissue culture (TC) plantlet. Be mindful when watering, making sure the plugs remain moist and do not dry out completely. Typically, watering once a week is sufficient, but you should adjust this schedule based on the humidity levels in your home. In drier environments, you may need to water more frequently if you notice the plant drying out.
        Please check this link for complete care instructions.
    3. Cutting
      If you received a cutting, please click here for complete care instructions

Step 5: Repotting Advice

If you intend to repot your plant into a different medium, wait about 4 weeks. This allows the plant to acclimate and reduces the risk of transplant shock. Once the plant is settled and shows no signs of stress, you can repot it into your preferred growing medium.

Final Tips

Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye on your plant during the first few weeks. Look for signs of new growth, which indicate the plant is adjusting well.

Exercise Patience: The transition can be stressful for plants. Consistent care and patience will help your plant thrive in its new environment.

By following these steps, you'll ensure your new plant adjusts well and starts to flourish. Enjoy the beauty and joy it brings to your space!

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