Is it really safe to order plants online?

The idea of ordering a plant online can seem strange or dangerous at first; everyone knows someone who’s had a damaged package arrive on their doorstep, what would that do to the poor plant inside?

Luckily, nowadays it’s practically a non-issue!

Online shopping for plants has always been around, but advancements made during the pandemic when the demand for purchasing plants online skyrocketed means that companies like Fancy Leaf Plant Co. are more prepared than ever to ensure your plants arrive healthy and flourishing at your door!

Ordering Plants Online

As with any online purchase, it’s important to do your research before buying!

Most online marketplaces for plants tend to advertise large, lush plants only to ship a much smaller and younger version, or even simply cuttings of the plant. This helps them to cut down on shipping costs, but at the frustration of the customer. We've forgone this at Fancy Leaf Plant Co., what you see online is what you get! When you order from our online store, the plant you receive will be practically fully grown and immediately ready to liven up your home.

While the cost of online purchases may be higher on average, in return you receive a much greater variety of plants to choose from. However, be careful to look up the requirements for your plant before purchasing! The environment is not usually a concern when buying in the same state as the retailer, but if the order is coming from out of state, make sure your plant is prepared for it. Houseplants like the snake plant or succulent are very resilient and lax in their demands, allowing more room for error with a new plant-parent compared to something like an azalea or Boston fern, which have more strict requirements in order to flourish.

Our Packing Process

Here at Fancy Leaf Plant Co., when preparing a plant to be shipped, wood fibers are used to cover the soil to help prevent any spillage inside the package on its journey to your home. The wood fiber is placed directly under the foliage, then a plastic bag covers the planter and wood fiber portion of the plant to keep everything together. Next, we secure it tightly with a zip-tie before placing the houseplant in a paper bag and wrapping the complete package with a rubber band.

The paper bag keeps it all together, allowing in air and moisture while preventing any leaves or foliage from being scuffed up inside the shipping box, acting as both security and a nice presentation for customers.

Additionally, for any tall or big plant, they are stabilized with a wooden stick and special card-board inserts are used to lock them in before shipping.

Finally, plant-sized boxes are appropriately chosen and the houseplant packed securely within. This will ensure there is as little empty space as possible, keeping the plant from being jostled and knocked back and forth on its journey.

All these steps ensure that any plant purchased online will arrive healthy and safe at your doorstep.