How to mail plants

The joy of sharing plants with others! Mailing plants can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, you can ensure they arrive safely and thrive. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to mail plants:

Preparation

  1. Choose the right plant: Select plants that are suitable for shipping, such as succulents, cacti, and small herb plants. Avoid plants with delicate roots or those that require a lot of care.
  2. Prepare the plant: Water the plant thoroughly a day or two before shipping to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Trim any long stems or roots to prevent damage during transit.
  3. Use a sturdy container: Place the plant in a sturdy, well-draining container with a secure lid. This will help prevent soil from spilling during shipping.
  4. Wrap the plant: Wrap the container in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect it from shocks and vibrations.
  5. Add packing materials: Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing materials like packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or bubble wrap to prevent the plant from moving around during shipping.

Packing the Plant

  1. Use a sturdy box: Choose a box that is specifically designed for shipping plants. If you don't have one, use a box with a sturdy bottom and sides.
  2. Place the plant in the box: Carefully place the wrapped plant in the box, making sure it's centered and secure.
  3. Add more packing materials: Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing materials to prevent the plant from moving around during shipping.
  4. Seal the box: Close the box and seal it with packing tape.

Shipping the Plant

  1. Choose a shipping method: Select a shipping method that provides tracking and insurance, such as USPS, UPS, or FedEx.
  2. Check local regulations: Check with your local post office or shipping carrier to see if there are any specific regulations or restrictions on shipping plants in your area.
  3. Label the box: Clearly label the box with the recipient's address and any relevant handling instructions (e.g., "Fragile" or "Live Plant").
  4. Pay for shipping: Pay for the shipping costs and any additional fees (e.g., insurance or handling fees).

Tips and Considerations

  1. Keep the plant cool: Plants can be sensitive to heat, so consider shipping them during cooler months or using a cold pack to keep them cool during transit.
  2. Monitor the plant's condition: Check on the plant's condition before shipping and make sure it's not showing any signs of stress or damage.
  3. Provide care instructions: Include care instructions with the plant to help the recipient keep it healthy and thriving.
  4. Consider using a plant shipping service: If you're not comfortable shipping plants yourself, consider using a plant shipping service that specializes in shipping live plants.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your plants arrive safely and thrive at their new home. Happy planting!