Why plants die

The main reasons plants die during shipping are

1. Heat or cold damage

  • Packages can sit in trucks or warehouses over 100°F (38°C) or below freezing under 32°F (0°C)
  • Roots overheat or freeze first; even warm-loving plants can cook on hot trucks, tender plants will die if frozen
  • Even a few hours of temperature extremes can be fatal

2. Lack of light

  • Plants are boxed in complete darkness
  • After several days, photosynthesis stops
  • Due to this, we primarily ship priority to decrease shipping times, which is more expensive than shipping non-perishable goods
  • Shipping one plant costs almost the same as shipping many plants; therefore, we offer free shipping on orders over a certain dollar amount

3. Dehydration, Physical Damage, and more

  • Boxes get stacked, dropped, or crushed; stems can break; leaves can be crushed; and excessive shaking loosens soil and exposes roots.  Soil dries out during transit if shipping is delayed. 
  • Please let us know if your package's tracking is significantly delayed.  A few days is not something to worry about, but a week or more is.  After a specific period (2 weeks+), we can request carriers to place tracking devices on the package and file claims.
  • All plants are packed tightly to minimize movement, insured, and we will ensure you receive a healthy plant, even if the shipping company fails.
  • If there is a problem when the plants are delivered: 
    • Take a photo after delivery (within 24 hours) and send it to us so we can resolve the problem.

What buyers can do to help plants survive

  • Order during mild weather
  • Bring packages inside immediately
    • If your package shows as delivered but you cannot find it, start by contacting your post office/mail carrier. They are the best people to help.  Typically, these packages do show up.
  • Unpack right away
  • Water gently (don’t drown)
  • Keep plants shaded for several days and harden off plants according to the instructions in the box
  • If something looks off or if you have questions, contact us with a picture. We are always here to help.  Pictures are required for insurance claims with the carrier and for us to understand how to help.