Since a few years, it has become increasingly common for people to order special plants from a webshop. This sometimes involves some risks and can be exciting if you have never done this before. Nevertheless, nowadays companies are getting better at sending even the most sensitive and rare tropical plants by mail (even during winter)!
Packaging
These days, plants are often packed tightly, with the plant secured in the pot. The potting soil is covered so it does not fall out and the plant is supported with bamboo sticks, for example. Using breathable material, such as paper or perforated plastic, prevents mold formation in summer. In the winter months, more insulation is used against cold and temperature changes. Padding material can also keep the plant well in place.
Time
Many web shops offer faster shipping options to minimize shipping over longer distances. In addition, many web shops choose to ship to certain areas only at the beginning of the week. For example, if you want to ship plants from southern Europe to Sweden, it is important to inquire with the shop about their shipping policy. Shipping on Monday then becomes very important.
Watering
Good web shops make sure that the plants get the right amount of water before shipping, so that they do not dry out, but also no other damage such as rotting or cold damage. In winter, houseplants will usually have received less water because water conducts temperature. The plant could then suffer faster from temperature changes and suffer damage as a result.
Communication
Nowadays it is possible to track packages with a tracking link. This track & trace is sent automatically by most web shops when your plant is ready for shipment. Be sure to check carefully if the webshop you want to order from does this. Aftercare in the form of customer service is also an important aspect that affects the reliability of the webshop. Choose a web shop to send your plants on this basis.
Webshops that take the above into account have experience with shipping customers and ensure that sending houseplants is a lot easier and safer than many people think. Still, there is a distinction in where you order your plants. So do your research beforehand if you want to buy your dream plant somewhere online.
