How to Care for Your Plants After Delivery | ShrubHub Plant Guide

Receiving a fresh delivery of plants is one of the most exciting parts of starting or upgrading your garden. At ShrubHub, we take pride in sending out healthy, ready-to-thrive plants—but their long-term success depends on how they’re cared for once they arrive at your doorstep.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a total beginner, this simple guide will walk you through how to care for your plants after delivery—so they flourish from day one.

Step 1: Unpack Your Plants Immediately

As soon as your plants arrive:

• Open the box right away to allow air circulation and light in.
• Remove all packaging materials carefully, including any paper, plastic, or soil covers.
• Inspect the plant for any damage during transit. Minor bent leaves or drooping are usually temporary and will recover with proper care.

Pro Tip: It’s normal for plants to look a little stressed after shipping. Give them a day or two to bounce back.

Step 2: Water Gently

After being in a box, your plant is likely a bit dehydrated. Here's what to do:

• Feel the soil—if it’s dry to the touch, water thoroughly.
• Avoid overwatering if the soil is still damp from transit.
• Let excess water drain fully to avoid root rot.

For potted plants: Make sure pots have proper drainage holes.
For bare-root plants: Soak roots in water for 1–2 hours before planting.

Step 3: Let Them Acclimate

Don’t plant them immediately outdoors or move them into full sun. Instead:

• Place them in a shaded, sheltered area for 1–3 days.
• Gradually introduce them to their new environment, especially if they’ll live in full sun or breezy spots.
• For indoor plants, start with bright, indirect light before moving to their permanent location.

Step 4: Plant with Care

Once your plant has rested and you’re ready to get it in the ground or a pot:

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
• Loosen the roots gently if they’re tightly bound.
• Backfill with rich, well-draining soil and water immediately after planting.

Don’t forget to mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature (keep mulch a couple inches away from the stem).

Step 5: Monitor, Don’t Panic

Your plant may show signs of transplant shock—a normal process where the plant adjusts to its new environment. You might notice:

• Slight yellowing of leaves
• Droopiness
• Slow growth the first week

This is temporary! Continue to water when needed, avoid fertilizing right away, and be patient. Most plants perk up within 7–10 days.

Bonus Tips for Success

• Check the plant tag or online listing for specific care instructions (sunlight, spacing, watering).
• Keep an eye on local weather. If extreme heat or frost is forecasted, consider delaying planting or offering temporary protection.
• Label your plants to track names, bloom times, and care routines—especially helpful in larger gardens.

Trust ShrubHub's Plant Marketplace, From Delivery to Bloom

At ShrubHub, we ship every plant with care—but the real magic happens when they take root in your home or yard. By following these simple post-delivery steps, you give your new greenery the best start possible.

Whether you ordered a hardy perennial, a flowering shrub, or a statement tree, a little early care goes a long way. Need more tips? Browse our blog or explore ShrubHub’s expert landscape design services to get a personalized plan that makes your space shine.

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