How To Ship Succulents: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Debra Pollich June 10, 2023 Post a Comment

Succulents are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening enthusiasts. They are easy to care for, come in a variety of colors and shapes, and can thrive in almost any environment. However, shipping succulents can be a bit tricky, especially if you want to ensure that they arrive at their destination healthy and intact. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to ship succulents.

Packaging

The first step in shipping succulents is to ensure that they are packaged properly. Here's what you'll need:

A sturdy box
Packing peanuts or bubble wrap
Tape
Scissors
Newspaper or tissue paper

To package your succulents, follow these steps:

Fill the bottom of the box with packing peanuts or bubble wrap.
Wrap each succulent in newspaper or tissue paper.
Place the wrapped succulents in the box, making sure there is enough space between them so they don't touch.
Fill the gaps between the succulents with more packing peanuts or bubble wrap.
Close the box and tape it shut.

Labeling

Labeling your box is important to ensure that it arrives at its destination without any issues. Here's what you need to include on the label:

Your name and address
The recipient's name and address
"Live Plants" or "Fragile" written in bold letters

Shipping

Now that your succulents are packaged and labeled, it's time to ship them. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Choose a reputable shipping company that specializes in live plant shipping.
Select a shipping option that guarantees delivery within 2-3 days.
Avoid shipping during extreme weather conditions.

Choosing the Right Time to Ship

When it comes to shipping succulents, timing is everything. Here are some tips on when to ship your succulents:

Avoid shipping during extreme temperatures.
Ship early in the week to avoid packages being stuck over the weekend.
Consider shipping in the fall or spring when temperatures are milder.

Choosing the Right Succulent

Choosing the right succulent is important if you want to ensure that it arrives at its destination healthy and intact. Here's what to look for:

Choose a succulent that is in good health.
Look for succulents that have sturdy stems and leaves.
Avoid choosing succulents that are too large or heavy.

Watering Your Succulents

It's important to water your succulents before shipping them. Here's how:

Water your succulents 1-2 days before shipping.
Allow the soil to dry out slightly before packaging.

Unpacking Your Succulents

Once your succulents arrive at their destination, it's important to unpack them carefully. Here's what to do:

Open the box and remove the packing peanuts or bubble wrap.
Carefully remove the succulents from the box.
Inspect each succulent for damage.
Water your succulents if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when shipping succulents:

Over-watering your succulents before shipping.
Choosing fragile or delicate succulents.
Not labeling your box properly.

Tips for International Shipping

If you're shipping succulents internationally, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Make sure you have all the necessary permits and paperwork.
Choose a reputable international shipping company.
Be prepared for delays due to customs inspections.

Best Places to Order Succulents Online

If you're looking to order succulents online, here are some of the best places to do so:

Etsy
Amazon
The Sill
Terrain

How to Care for Your Succulents After Shipping

Once your succulents have arrived at their destination, it's important to take care of them properly. Here's what to do:

Water your succulents sparingly.
Place your succulents in a sunny spot.
Monitor your succulents for any signs of damage or disease.

Shipping succulents can be a bit tricky, but with the right packaging, labeling, and shipping methods, you can ensure that your succulents arrive at their destination healthy and intact. Remember to choose the right time to ship, select the right succulent, and water your succulents before shipping. With these tips, you'll be able to ship your succulents with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I ship succulents internationally?

Yes, you can ship succulents internationally, but you will need to make sure you have all the necessary permits and paperwork.

Q2: How long can succulents survive without water during shipping?

Succulents can survive for up to two weeks without water, but it's best to water them 1-2 days before shipping.

Q3: Can I ship succulents in the winter?

It's best to avoid shipping succulents during extreme temperatures, including the winter months.

Q4: What is the best way to package succulents for shipping?

The best way to package succulents for shipping is to wrap each succulent in newspaper or tissue paper and fill the gaps between them with packing peanuts or bubble wrap.