Ready, Set, Grow: What to Do When Your New Plants Arrive

Great news! Your plants have arrived, and they’re ready to grow. 

Every plant receives expert care at our nursery, so they’re thriving and healthy from the start, and our proven packaging techniques ensure they arrive protected and stress-free in shipping. However, even with the best care, it’s normal for plants to need a little time to perk up after shipping (like we sometimes do after a long trip). 

Follow these simple steps to help your new plants settle in and start growing with confidence.

Quick Checklist

Short on time? Here’s what you need to know to ensure your new plants get off to a strong start:

1. Unbox your plants as soon as possible

2. Check soil moisture, and water if it's dry

3. Place in a protected spot

4. Prep your planting location

5. Get ready to grow! 

Step 1: Unbox Your Plants as Soon as Possible

When your order arrives, carefully remove your plants from the box and take off any packaging materials (leaving any nursery pots or burlap or cloth planting bags in place). Plants are packed securely for transit, but once they arrive, they’ll do best with fresh air and natural light.

Expert tip: If you receive your order but aren't planting right away, that's okay! Unbox your order as soon as possible, keep your plant in a protected outdoor area and continue checking soil moisture daily.

Step 2: Check the Soil Moisture (and Water if Needed)

Before you plant, check the soil moisture with your finger a few inches down. Shipping conditions can vary, so this quick step helps you give your plant exactly what it needs.

• If the soil feels dry: water thoroughly

• If the soil still feels moist: hold off for now
  

Expert tip: Water slowly until the soil is evenly moist and you see a little water drain from the bottom of the pot. This helps fully hydrate the root ball without overwatering.

Step 3: Choose the Right Spot for Planting

Now it’s time to figure out where your plant will live. Before planting, check the planting and care instructions for each plant (you can find them linked in your order confirmation emails). Your plant will thrive best in conditions that meet its needs. 

Before planting, make sure you:

• Confirm the plant’s sunlight needs (full sun, partial sun, or shade)

• Choose a spot with good drainage

• Allow enough space to grow (plants need room to mature)
  

Step 4: Give Your Plant Time to Adjust After Shipping

A little “travel stress” is normal immediately after shipping. You may notice temporary changes like:

• Slight drooping
  

• Minor leaf drop
  

• Light discoloration
  

In most cases, plants perk up within a few days once they’re unboxed, watered appropriately, and placed in a stable environment.

Expert Tip: Avoid fertilizing immediately after arrival. Let your plant settle in first—healthy roots and consistent watering matter most at this stage.

What’s Normal vs. When to Reach Out

Normal after shipping:

• Mild drooping
  

• A few yellow leaves
  

• Minor leaf drop
  

Reach out to our team if you notice:

• Major breakage or severe damage
  

• Completely dry soil that won’t rehydrate
  

• No improvement after several days of care

Plant with Confidence

Once your plant is hydrated and settled, you’re ready to plant. For step-by-step help based on your specific variety, explore our planting and care guides for the best timing, spacing, and long-term care.

Every plant we ship is grown and packed with care, backed by our commitment to quality and support. If you ever have questions along the way, our Plant Experts are here to help, so you can grow with confidence from day one.