When your new plant arrives, unbox it gently, place it in bright indirect light, wait before repotting, and allow two weeks for adjustment. Most plants experience minor travel stress and recover quickly with consistent care.
There is nothing quite like the excitement of receiving a new plant in the mail. At La Tierra Bendita, each order is packed carefully to protect foliage, soil, and roots during transit.
Here is what to expect and how to help your plant settle in smoothly.
What to Expect When Your Plant Arrives
Every plant is packaged with care before making its journey to you. Most plants are shipped in their nursery pots and secured with protective paper wrapping, soil caps, and cardboard inserts to keep everything stable and upright during transit.
When you open your box, you may notice:
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Foliage wrapped in paper for protection
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A soil cap or tape seal across the pot to prevent spills
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Cardboard inserts keeping the plant snug and secure
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Some loose soil or slightly bent leaves from travel (This is completely normal. A few days of rest and light will help your plant perk right up.)
Unboxing Your Plant
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Open your box carefully. Use scissors to cut any tape and gently remove packing material. Avoid pulling the plant out by its stems or leaves.
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Remove the wrapping with care. Unwrap the paper around the foliage first, then gently remove the cardboard supports. If there’s a soil cap or tape seal across the top of the pot, peel it off slowly to avoid disturbing the soil.
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Inspect your plant. Check for any damage or signs of stress. If something doesn’t look right, take clear photos and email us at hello@latierrabendita.com within 14 days of delivery.
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Let your plant breathe. Place it in a bright, indirect light spot and allow it to rest for a few days before watering or moving it around.
💡 Tip: Don’t worry if your plant looks a little droopy after shipping. Think of it as travel fatigue. With a little rest and proper care, it will recover quickly.
Should You Repot Right Away?
We recommend waiting about two weeks before repotting your new plant. Shipping can be stressful, and giving your plant time to acclimate helps it adjust to its new environment.
During this time, your plant will begin forming new roots and adapting to the light, humidity, and temperature of your space. Repotting too soon can interrupt that process, so patience truly pays off.
If you notice roots growing through the bottom of the nursery pot or the pot is cracked, you can transfer the plant into a similar-sized container with fresh soil and proper drainage.
💡 Tip: Learn more about the best timing and methods for repotting in our Repotting Guide, and read about how our Healthy Plant Guarantee covers your plant during this settling-in period.
Watering After Arrival
It’s normal for soil to feel slightly dry after shipping. Before watering, test the top inch of soil:
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If it feels dry, water slowly until it drains from the bottom
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If it’s still slightly damp, wait a day or two before watering
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Always use room-temperature water and avoid letting the plant sit in excess water
💡 Tip: Each plant species has unique watering needs. Visit our Plant Care Library for detailed watering instructions by plant type.
Lighting and Placement
After unboxing, keep your plant in bright, indirect light for the first week or two. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight right away, as the leaves may be more sensitive after transit.
Once your plant looks perked up and stable, move it to its ideal lighting conditions. Keep it away from cold drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents, and maintain a temperature between 65–85°F.
Helping Your Plant Adjust
To reduce stress:
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Trim away any yellow or damaged leaves
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Hold off on fertilizing for at least two weeks
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Give your plant a consistent spot and routine so it can adapt to its new environment
💡 Tip: The more consistent your care, the faster your plant will adjust. Avoid moving it from place to place while it’s settling in.
Final Thoughts
Your plant has traveled carefully to reach you. With steady light, proper watering, and patience, it will settle into its new environment.
Minor drooping or leaf movement is common after shipping. Observation and consistency are key.
Welcome to the La Tierra Bendita family. Your plant’s next chapter begins now!