Unboxing a new rare aroid or wishlist plant (whether you won it on a live auction app like Palmstreet or ordered it directly from our shop) is always an exciting moment.
Behind the scenes, we put a tremendous amount of care, custom packing, and climate protection into getting your plant ready for its journey. But once that box lands on your doorstep, the baton passes to you! Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to helping your new green arrival transition smoothly from our greenhouse to your plant room.
Step 1: Unbox with Care
Shipping means darkness and being jostled around, so your plant will be eager for some fresh air.
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Use scissors or a box cutter carefully, staying well away from the stems and foliage as you cut through shipping tape.
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Gently unwrap any tissue paper, bubble wrap, or protective sleeves.
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Check the root ball and pot—we secure everything tightly for transit, so you can remove any stabilizing ties or tape now.
Step 2: Inspect and Clean
Take a close look at your plant under good lighting. It is completely normal for a shipped plant to drop a lower leaf or look slightly limp from travel fatigue, but overall it should look healthy and ready to bounce back.
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Gently wipe down dusty leaves with a damp microfiber cloth to help the plant immediately resume photosynthesis.
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Give the foliage and stems a quick inspection. (Even though we screen and treat everything before it leaves our care, travel is a vulnerable time for any plant collection!)
Step 3: Assess Moisture and Water Wisely
Shipping conditions make it tricky to guess watering needs right out of the box.
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Check the soil: Stick your finger about an inch into the potting medium.
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If it is bone dry, give the plant a thorough, deep watering until it runs freely out of the drainage holes.
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If the soil is still damp or wet, do not water it. Let it dry out naturally to avoid shocking the root system.
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Crucial note: Never fertilize a newly shipped plant. The extra nutrients can easily burn stressed roots. Wait at least four to six weeks before feeding.
Step 4: Quarantine and Settle
Your new plant is experiencing a minor form of jet lag. The best thing you can do for it is let it rest.
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Keep the plant away from drafty windows, AC vents, and direct, scorching sun for the first week. Bright, indirect light is your best friend right now.
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