Reviving Plants after Shipping: Essential Care Tips

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Receiving Plants in the Mail
   • What to Do If the Plant Looks Fine
   • What to Do If the Soil Is Wet
   • What to Do If the Soil Is Dry
   • Letting the Plant Acclimate
3. Dealing with Damaged Plants
   • Checking for Rot
   • Removing Yellowing Leaves
   • Removing Extra Healthy Leaves
4. Rehabilitating Plants in Water
   • Tips for Rehabilitating Plants in Water
   • Miscellaneous Tips for Plant Rehab
5. Dealing with Variegated Plants
6. Final Tips and Warnings
7. Conclusion

🌱 Introduction

Welcome to this week's video on what to do with plants after receiving them in the mail. My name is Kaylee Allen, and in this video, I'll be providing you with essential tips and instructions on how to care for your plants in various scenarios. Whether your plants are in perfect condition, damaged, or need rehabilitation, I've got you covered. As a seasoned rare plant shop owner and plant enthusiast, I have extensive experience in dealing with plants after shipping. So, let's dive in and get your plants thriving!

📦 Receiving Plants in the Mail

What to Do If the Plant Looks Fine

Upon receiving your plant, carefully inspect its condition. If it looks healthy and without any visible issues, consider yourself lucky! In this scenario, it's crucial not to panic or rush into repotting. Instead, allow the plant to acclimate to its new environment. Even if it seems perfect now, it might still undergo transit shock. Keep it in its original packaging and leave it untouched for at least a week. This period of rest will help the plant recover from any stress it experienced during shipping.

What to Do If the Soil Is Wet

If your plant looks fine but the soil is overly wet, it's essential to address the excess moisture. Place the plant in a warm location and avoid watering it for at least a week. Allowing the soil to dry out naturally will prevent the risk of root rot. If you're concerned about the amount of water in the substrate, consider using a heat mat to expedite the evaporation process. Remember, refraining from watering the plant is crucial during this period of recovery.

What to Do If the Soil Is Dry

On the other hand, if the soil is bone-dry, it's important to rehydrate the plant. Fill a shallow bowl with water and place the plant in it, allowing the water to be absorbed from the bottom upwards. This bottom watering method ensures that the plant takes in water at its own pace, avoiding the risk of overwatering. Once the top substrate is adequately damp, remove the plant from the water and place it in its designated spot. Resist the temptation to repot the plant immediately, as it needs time to adjust and stabilize.

Letting the Plant Acclimate

Whether your plant appears fine or has minor issues, it's crucial to let it acclimate to its new surroundings. This period of acclimation allows the plant to recover from any transit stress it may have experienced. Avoid repotting, disturbing the roots, or making any drastic changes for at least a week. By allowing the plant to rest, you're giving it the best chance to adapt and thrive in its new environment.

🌿 Dealing with Damaged Plants

Checking for Rot

If your plant arrives with damaged leaves, droopiness, or mushy stems, it's a sign that the plant has experienced significant stress during shipping. Start by carefully examining the plant for any signs of rot, including the roots and stems. If you identify any rot, promptly remove the affected areas using sterile tools. This will prevent the spread of rot and allow the plant to redirect its energy towards recovery.

Removing Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves are a common occurrence in plants that have experienced shipping stress. If you notice yellow leaves on your newly arrived plant, it's best to remove them. These leaves have likely lost their root support and won't recover. By removing yellowing leaves, you're allowing the plant to allocate its energy towards new growth and rehabilitation.

Removing Extra Healthy Leaves

In cases where the plant has suffered significant root damage, it's advisable to remove up to two-thirds of the healthy leaves as well. Although it may seem counterintuitive, removing healthy leaves allows the plant to conserve energy and focus on root recovery. The remaining leaves will provide adequate energy for the plant's rehabilitation.

💦 Rehabilitating Plants in Water

When dealing with plants that require rehabilitation, water can be your best friend. If your plant needs significant care and recovery, placing it in water can promote root regeneration. This method is most effective for plants like philodendrons, monsteras, and alocasias. Keep the following tips in mind when rehabilitating plants in water:

• Use cool water instead of warm water to minimize the risk of rot.
• Avoid grouping multiple plants in the same container to prevent the spread of any potential disease or rot.
• Refrain from fertilizing plants during the rehabilitation process, as their root systems may not be sufficient to absorb nutrients.
• Provide adequate lighting but avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight. Natural light or gentle grow lights are ideal.
• If dealing with high humidity plants like Queen Anthuriums or Reiguelia Theorems, consider enclosing the plant in a bag or using a terrarium to maintain optimal humidity levels.

🌟 Final Tips and Warnings

• Variegated plants, such as Philodendron Florida Beauty, may sometimes develop brown spots or experience leaf loss during shipping. This is due to the stress of transit and does not indicate a loss of variegation. New growth will showcase the desired variegation pattern.
• Avoid repotting the plant immediately if it arrived in good condition. Let it acclimate for a week before considering repotting.
• If repotting is necessary, do not shake off the substrate from the roots. Keep the roots intact and nestle the plant into the new pot without disturbance.
• Remember to communicate with the seller if your plant arrives in poor condition or with significant issues. Take photos and describe the situation to seek appropriate solutions.

🌿 Conclusion

Caring for plants after receiving them in the mail requires patience, attention to detail, and understanding. By following the guidelines and tips provided, you can ensure that your plants have the best chance of recovery and thrive in their new environment. Remember, every plant is unique, and rehabilitation timelines may vary. Stay positive, be diligent in your care, and soon you'll witness your once-damaged plants thriving once again!

🍃 Happy gardening and may your plants grow greener every day!