Welcome to Your New Plant Journey!
Bringing a new plant into your home is an exciting experience, but it also comes with responsibilities. Don't worry - we've got you covered! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help your plant settle in and thrive in its new environment. Follow these tips to give your new plant the best care right from the start.
1. Unpack Your Plant with Care
Gently remove your plant from its packaging. We’ve handled it with love, and we know you will too! Inspect the plant to make sure everything looks as expected.
2. Inspect for Travel Bumps
Check the roots, stems, and leaves for any signs of damage from the journey. Some yellowing or bent leaves are normal, but if you notice anything more serious, let us know immediately. Your plant is covered by our 28-day guarantee, so reach out if needed.
3. Avoid Repotting for 28 days – It Voids the Guarantee
Hold off on repotting during the 28-day guarantee period. Repotting too early can shock your plant and void the guarantee. Allow it to settle into its new home first.
4. Let Your Plant Settle
For the first few weeks, keep your plant in the pot and medium it arrived in. Moving it too soon can stress the roots. Give your plant time to adapt before making any changes.
5. Quarantine Your New Plant
To protect your other plants, keep your new arrival in quarantine for about a week. Even though our plants are thoroughly inspected, this precaution helps avoid the spread of potential pests.
6. If You Received a Plug Plant
If your plant is a plug (a young plant without a pot), plant it in a small container, just a few centimeters wider than the plug. Keep the plug filter intact for the first few weeks to protect delicate roots—the filter will break down naturally.
7. Pack the Medium Lightly
If you ordered a plug (starter) plant, and have to pot it up, ensure the potting medium is loosely packed. A fluffy and airy mix encourages healthy root growth and promotes proper air circulation.
8. Water Wisely
Avoid overwatering—your plant’s medium should be slightly moist, but not soggy. Let the top layer dry out between waterings. After unpacking, focus on providing light and humidity first, and only water when necessary, not immediately after the journey.
📌 To learn all about how to water your houseplants properly, read our Guide to Watering Houseplants
9. Maintain High Humidity
Most houseplants thrive in high humidity. Use a humidifier, group plants together, or place your plant in a naturally more humid room.
📌 To find out what humidity levels are perfect for your plant, and how to provide them, have a look at our Guide to Mastering Humidity Levels for Houseplants.
10. Provide Bright, Indirect Light
Position your plant in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves, especially for plants that are acclimating. Alternatively, use a plant light if needed.
📌 Annoyed with the overused term 'Plenty of Bright Indirect Light' because it's too vague? We have you covered! Read our post How Much Light is "Plenty of Bright, Indirect Light" EXACTLY? and this phrase will finally make sense!
11. Skip Fertilizing for Now
Your plant was fertilized before shipping, so there’s no need to fertilize it right away. Once ready, use a diluted fertilizer or gentle foliage formula. You can, however, use a diluted plant vitamin solution - they work wonders for after-transport shock!
📌 To learn and when and how to fertilize your houseplants, head to our comprehensive Guide to Houseplant Fertilizing.
12. Ensure Good Ventilation
If your plant is in a terrarium or greenhouse, make sure there is enough air circulation to prevent mold and keep the environment healthy.
13. Repot When You See New Root Growth
After the first 28 days, once you see signs of new root growth, you can carefully repot your plant. Be gentle with the roots and choose a medium suited to your plant type.
📌 In the meantime, read our Guide to Repotting Houseplants.
14. Stay Informed with Plant Care Resources
For more detailed tips, check out:
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General Plant Care Page - Basic Plant Care Tips and Essential Care for Healthy Plants
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Plant Care Blog - Our Advanced Guides and Expert Tips for Thriving Plants
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Genera Info Pages - Our in-depth guides to help you deepen your understanding of plant genera
You’ll find expert advice, plant-specific guides, and lots of helpful resources to keep your plants happy and healthy.
Also, every plant that we sell, has a quick key facts sheets and a detailed plant care included in its description, so head back to the Shop to find out more about your new plant!
15. Enjoy the Journey!
Caring for plants is a rewarding experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you. Plants are resilient and, with a little care, will thrive!
And if you need more help or advice, please don't hesitate to contact us!
🤔 FAQ:
Why Shouldn't I Repot My Plant Within the First 28 Days?
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28 days (or about 4 weeks) should be enough time for your plant to adjust to its new environment at your home. This adjustment period can be stressful, leading to shock.
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Repotting too soon adds even more stress, making it difficult for us to determine if any issues are due to the plant's original condition, transport shock, or repotting.
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Allowing this adjustment period helps ensure your plant is stable before undergoing the stress of repotting.
After-Purchase Plant Care Guide
More Common Questions About Care of New Plants:
1. How soon should I water my new plant?
Wait until the soil feels dry to the touch. Focus on light and humidity first, and only water when needed.
2. Can I repot my plant right away?
It’s best to wait at least 28 days to avoid voiding the guarantee and causing shock to the plant.
3. What if my plant has yellow leaves?
Some yellowing can occur due to shipping stress. If the plant otherwise looks healthy, it should recover after acclimating.
4. How do I know if my plant needs more light?
Look for signs like leggy growth or pale leaves. If you notice these, move the plant to a brighter spot with indirect light.
Need Help or Have More Questions?
We’re here for you! Visit our FAQ section or contact us directly if you have any questions or need advice. We’re happy to help with all your plant care needs!