How to ship a potted plant

Shipping potted plants can be a bit daunting, especially if you're not sure how to go about it. However, with the right steps, you can safely transport your plant without causing any damage. Whether you're moving house or sending a gift, these tips will help you successfully ship your potted plant.

Step 1: Choose the right container

Firstly, you'll need to choose the right container for your plant. You'll want to use a sturdy box that's large enough to comfortably fit your pot with extra space for padding. Make sure the box is also deep enough to accommodate the height of your plant, along with a few inches of cushioning material at the top.

Step 2: Prepare the plant

Before shipping your potted plant, you'll need to prepare it. Start by watering your plant a day in advance to ensure it's well-hydrated. Then, remove any dead leaves or stems and prune it if necessary. Make sure the plant is in good condition before you ship it.

Step 3: Secure the pot

Next, you'll want to secure the pot to prevent it from moving around during transit. Wrap the pot in bubble wrap or newspaper, and then use packing tape to secure it in place. If your plant is bigger, you may want to wrap the entire pot in saran wrap to prevent soil from spilling out.

Step 4: Add cushioning material

Once the pot is secure, you'll need to add cushioning material to prevent the plant from shifting around in the box. Use tissue paper or newspaper to wrap around the base of the plant, and then add packing peanuts or smushed up paper to fill the empty space in the box. Make sure the plant is firmly in place and can't move around.

Step 5: Label and seal the box

Finally, label and seal the box properly. Use a permanent marker to write "Fragile" or "Live Plants" on the box to ensure the handling is gentle. Label the top of the box with the plant's name if it's a gift or if it needs special attention. Then, seal the box tightly with packing tape, and you're ready to go!

Shipping a potted plant may seem challenging, but with the right preparation and care, you can ensure that your plant arrives at its destination safely and without any damage. By choosing the right container, preparing the plant, securing the pot, adding cushioning material, and properly labeling and sealing the box, your plant will get to where it needs to go in one piece. Good luck!