Your Plant Has Arrived: The First Week
Your first week
Your plant just traveled from the greenhouse to your door. The first week is about letting it settle into a new home. Here is exactly what to do, in order.
The short version
Unbox todayBright, indirect lightWater when the top inch is dryNo repotting yetA little droop is normalUnbox it the day it arrives
Open the box as soon as it lands. Remove the paper sleeve, packing and any heat pack, then stand the plant upright somewhere bright. A plant left in a closed box keeps losing light and air.
Give it a quick look
A bent leaf or a little loose soil is normal after a trip. If something is clearly wrong, like a snapped main stem or a crushed plant, take a photo now while it is still in its packaging. That photo is all you need for a guarantee claim.
Find bright, indirect light
Near a window but out of harsh afternoon sun is the right spot for most houseplants. Low light growers like snake plants and ZZ plants are happy farther back in the room. Not sure what your room offers? Read How Much Light Does My Plant Really Need?
Leave it in its nursery pot
Hold off on repotting for two to three weeks. Moving into a new home is enough change for now. When you are ready, follow How to Repot a Plant Without Killing It.
Check the soil before you water
Push a finger into the soil. Water only when the top inch feels dry, then water until it drains from the bottom. Most new plants are overwatered, not underwatered.
Expect a little droop
A soft leaf or two in the first few days is the plant adjusting to new light and air. It usually perks up on its own within a week. Skip fertilizer for the first month while it settles.
Keep it away from vents and drafts
Heaters, air conditioners and cold doorways dry out leaves fast. Tropical plants also like humidity, so if the edges start to crisp, read Humidity 101.
30-Day Happy Plant Guarantee
Something not right?
Within 30 days of delivery, start a claim with a photo of your plant and your order number, and we send a replacement of the same plant.
Start a guarantee claimOrdering November through March? Add Winter Plant Shipping Protection at checkout to keep your guarantee.
Questions about your plant?
Every product page has a Care at a glance section for that plant. For anything else, email info@plantswagshop.com and our horticulturists will help.