Online Plant Purchase Guide | Checking the Condition of Arrived Seedlings and How to Handle Issues

Plants purchased online may not be in perfect condition upon arrival due to shipping stress and environmental changes. However, with proper initial care, they will usually recover well. This article explains in detail how to check the condition of plants when purchasing them online and how to address any problems that may arise.

Checklist Upon Package Arrival

Checking the Outer Box

First, check the condition of the outer box. Look for large dents, holes, or signs of water damage. If there is significant damage, take photos before opening the package. These photos may be needed as evidence of shipping damage.

Tips for Opening the Package

When opening the box, be careful not to insert the blade of a utility knife too deep, as you may damage the plants inside. Open the package in a bright location and record the opening process on your smartphone. This is recommended.

Plant Condition Checklist

Checking the Leaves

• Discoloration: Check for yellowing leaves. If only a few lower leaves have turned yellow, this is a normal physiological response to shipping stress and is usually not a problem. However, if many leaves have yellowed, there may be a root issue.
• Wilting: If the leaves are wilting, it may be due to lack of water or high temperatures during shipping. In most cases, watering will restore the plants within a few hours to one day.
• Spots or signs of disease: Check for brown or black spots, white powdery mold, or water-soaked lesions. These may be signs of disease, so isolate the plant from other plants.
• Pests: Pay special attention to the underside of leaves, the base of leaves, and the junction between stems and leaves. Check for pests such as spider mites, aphids, and scale insects.

Checking the Stems and Trunks

Check the stems and trunks for any soft, mushy sections. If there are softened areas, the plant may be rotting. Also check for breaks or large wounds.

Checking the Roots

For potted seedlings, gently remove the plant from the pot to check the roots. Healthy roots are white to light brown and firm. If the roots are dark, slimy, or smell bad, root rot is likely.

Checking the Soil

Check that the soil is not extremely dry or overly wet with mold. If soil has spilled during shipping and exposed the roots, replenish the soil as soon as possible.

Common Problems Upon Arrival and How to Address Them

Leaves are Falling Off

It is not uncommon for a few leaves to fall off due to vibrations during shipping or stress from being in a dark box. If the roots and stems are firm, the plant will recover without any problem. Place it in appropriate conditions and let it recover without worry.

Stems are Broken

If the broken part is not completely separated, you may be able to repair it by supporting it with a stake and securing it with tape. If it is completely broken, trim the cut with clean scissors and try propagating it as a cutting.

The Root Ball Has Fallen Apart

The root ball may crumble and soil may fall apart due to impact during shipping. Quickly repot into fresh soil and water thoroughly. If roots remain exposed for long periods, drying damage will be significant.

Mold Has Developed

The inside of the packaging may become humid, causing mold to develop on the soil surface or plants. Remove the moldy areas and place the plant in a well-ventilated location. For mold on the soil, remove the surface layer and apply a fungicide.

How to Care for Plants After Arrival

• Avoid direct sunlight immediately: Since plants were in a dark box during shipping, sudden exposure to strong sunlight will cause leaf burn. Keep the plant in bright shade or partial shade for the first 3-5 days.
• Adjust watering: If the soil is dry, water thoroughly after arrival. However, if the roots may be damaged, water sparingly and observe the plant's condition.
• Do not fertilize: Avoid fertilizing for 1-2 weeks after arrival. Fertilizing stressed plants can damage roots. Once the plant adjusts to its environment, start with diluted liquid fertilizer.
• Temperature control: If the plant arrives on an extremely hot or cold day, keep it in a stable indoor temperature.

Contacting the Seller if There Are Problems

If there are obvious problems upon arrival (dead plants, serious disease, or condition significantly different from what was listed), contact the seller immediately. Document the problem with photos and videos and report it along with the date and time of arrival. Using BreederDirect's messaging feature allows for quick communication. If payment has not been made, do not complete payment or confirm receipt until the problem is resolved.