When the box arrives, please open it and get the plants into soil as soon as possible. The faster you pot them, the faster they will settle in and start growing.
Step 1 — Unpack Carefully
Each plant has its roots wrapped in moss / tissue paper. This is only there to keep the roots hydrated during transit. It is not a growing medium. Remove all of it before potting.
Take your time when removing the wrap to avoid damaging the roots.
Tip: Get a tub or basin, gently spray, or run the plant under water, and let it sit in a little water for 10 to 15 minutes before potting. Most plants will fresh up quickly after this.
Step 2 — Potting and Soil Mix
Variegated Monstera and Philodendron do best in an aroid mix (a chunky, well-draining mix that allows air to reach the roots.) There is no single fixed recipe. The right mix depends on your environment and what is available to you locally. A typical aroid mix includes some combination of:
- Coco husk chips
- Perlite
- Vermiculite
- Orchid bark
At the nursery, most plants are grown in pure coco husk chips and they do very well too. So if you cannot find a ready-made aroid mix, coco husk chips alone is a good enough option.
Step 3 — Light
For the first 5 to 7 days, keep the plant in a shaded, well-ventilated area. This gives it time to adjust to its new environment without added stress.
Do NOT put the plant in direct sunlight during this period. Variegated leaves are more sensitive than regular green leaves and can burn easily, especially right after arrival.
Step 4 — Water
Water as you normally would for that plant type. There is no fixed watering schedule because it depends on your local temperature, humidity, and environment.
Step 5 — Fertilizer
Do not add any fertilizer for the first week. Let the plant settle into its new environment first.
If Your Plant Looks Tired After Arrival
In some cases, plants may look a little wilted or dry after a long journey. This is nothing to worry about. Get a tub or basin, gently spray, or run the plant under water, and let it sit in a little water for 10 to 15 minutes before potting. Most plants perk up quickly after this and recover well once they are in soil.
If you have any concerns after your plants arrive, get in touch and we will help.