Should I buy plants online? The answer is… it depends! In a world where you can have everything from groceries to furniture shipped to you, why would plants be any different? There’s no simple answer to this question: plants are living things and can be finicky during the shipping process.
Here are a few things I’ve learned from purchasing plants online to help you make the best decision!
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Think About The Season
Based on my experience, I would caution against ordering plants online in the winter, or ordering from somewhere where temperatures are cold in general. Your safest bet is to stick to temperatures above 50 degrees, as many plants will suffer in lower temperatures. So, that means late spring, summer and early fall are best (depending on where you live).
It may be tempting to order when plants are advertised during the winter months, but I remind myself of the time when I received a Piper Crocatum and Cissus Discolor in December with no leaves (even with a heat pack). I wouldn’t risk that again, it was really disappointing.
Acclimate Your Plants
Plants purchased online will need to be acclimated to your environment after shipping. I like to keep my online plant orders in the medium they arrive in, water upon arrival, place them in a spot with high humidity and wait a few weeks before moving them to soil or leca.
Check your newly shipped plants for pests before adding them to your collection, and trim off any dead leaves and stems.
Proper acclimation is really important to reduce stress and ensure your plants will thrive!
Purchase Small Plants You Can’t Find Locally
One benefit to ordering plants online is the variety… the possibilities are endless! However, you’ll be paying extra for shipping, and a lot of times plants will be smaller. I recommend visiting your local plant shops and big box stores first to see if they have what you’re looking for. Especially if you’re in search of a mature plant- you’ll be paying less in person. Check out Facebook Marketplace, and any local plant groups on Facebook as well.
If there is a rare or obscure plant on your wishlist that you can’t find locally, order it online!
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Expect Some Damage
When ordering plants online, keep in mind that minimal damage, wilting and leaf loss is normal: another reason why acclimation is important. The shipping process will shock most plants, so don’t expect them to arrive at their best. However, they will bounce back with the proper care and can definitely be worth it!
Check Reviews
This one is a given, but make sure you’re checking reviews before you order plants online. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
My Favorite Online Plant Shops
Happy Planting!
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