Bringing home a new plant is always exciting, whether it’s a lush Monstera, a delicate Calathea, or a resilient Snake Plant. But before you settle your leafy friend into its forever spot, there are a few essential steps should follow safe-keep your existing plants and help the new plant thrive!

Plants from nurseries often undergo stress from transportation, exposure to pests, or inconsistent watering. Skipping crucial care steps like repotting, pest control, and watering could leave your new plant vulnerable to disease, pests, or even an untimely demise.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to care for new plants from the nursery, explain why each step matters, and share how these practices will set your plants up for long-term success!

Step 1: Isolate Your New Plant 

Before introducing your new plant to your existing leafy babies, it’s important to quarantine it for at least 7–14 days.

Why Is This Important?

• Prevents Pest Infestations: Pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs can hitch a ride from the nursery.
• Reduces Disease Spread: Fungal infections or other plant diseases can easily spread to your other plants.
• Allows Observation: Isolation lets you closely observe the plant for any signs of stress, pests, or disease.

How to Isolate:

• Place your new plant in a separate, well-lit space away from other plants.
• Monitor it daily for pests, mold, or yellowing leaves.

Step 2: Inspect and Treat for Pests 

Even if your plant looks healthy, it’s wise to do a pest inspection and apply preventive spray treatment.

Why Is This Important?

• Pests Are Hard to Spot: Tiny bugs can hide on the undersides of leaves or in the soil.
• Preventative Care is Better: A quick treatment now saves you from a headache later from a full-blown infestation.

How to Inspect and Treat:

• Check the leaves (top and bottom) and stems for bugs, white spots, or webbing.
• Use an organic pesticide like neem oil spray or insecticidal soap.
• Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth after treatment.

Step 3: Repot If Necessary 

Not all nursery plants need immediate repotting, but sometimes they arrive root-bound or in poor-quality soil.

Why Is This Important?

• Improved Drainage: Nursery pots often use heavy, compact soil that retains too much moisture.
• Root Health: Root-bound plants have limited room to grow and can become stressed.
• Fresh Start: A new pot with fresh soil helps the plant adapt better to its new home.

When to Repot:

• If roots are sticking out from the bottom drainage holes.
• If the soil looks compacted or overly soggy.
• If the nursery pot seems too small for the plant.

How to Repot:

1. Choose a pot with drainage holes (1–2 inches/3-6 cm larger than the current pot).
2. Use the right soil mix (e.g., well-draining soil for succulents, moisture-retentive soil for ferns).
3. Gently loosen the roots before placing them in the new pot.
4. Water lightly after repotting to settle the soil.

Pro Tip: Avoid repotting flowering plants immediately—they may drop their flowers due to transplant stress.

Step 4: Water Mindfully 

Watering can make or break a plant’s transition into your home.

Why Is This Important?

• Nursery Watering Practices Vary: Some nurseries may overwater or underwater plants.
• Adaptation Period: Proper watering helps the plant settle into its new environment.
• Prevents Root Rot: Overwatering is one of the leading causes of houseplant death.

How to Water New Plants:

1. Check the soil moisture with your finger, water only if the top inch feels dry.
2. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot.
3. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Pro Tip: Different plants have different watering needs. Succulents need less frequent watering, while tropical plants like Calatheas prefer consistently moist soil.

Step 5: Adjust Light and Placement 

Why Is This Important?

• Adapting to New Light Levels: Plants may have been grown in shaded greenhouses and can suffer from sunburn in direct sunlight.
• Optimal Placement: The right light conditions encourage healthy growth and prevents stress.

How to Adjust Light:

• Start with bright, indirect light for most plants.
• Avoid direct sunlight for the first week unless the plant is sun-loving (e.g., cacti).
• Gradually transition the plant to its ideal spot over a week or two.

Pro Tip: If your home lacks natural light, consider investing in grow lights.

Step 6: Monitor and Be Patient 

Plants need time to adapt to their new home. Some might droop, lose a leaf, or look a little sad—that’s completely normal.

What to Monitor:

• Look for signs of new growth, which indicate the plant is settling in.
• Keep an eye out for yellowing leaves, which could signal overwatering.
• Observe the leaves for pest damage or unusual spots.

Pro Tip: Avoid fertilizing new plants for the first few weeks. Give them time to adjust before adding nutrients.

Benefits of Following These Steps: 

✅ Prevents Pest Infestations: Protects your entire plant collection from unwanted bugs.
✅ Reduces Plant Stress: Creates a smooth transition from the nursery to your home.
✅ Healthier Growth: Proper care sets your plant up for success and longevity.
✅ Saves Time and Money: Prevents costly replacements or treatments for sick plants.

Bringing home a new plant is more than just placing it on a shelf and admiring it, it’s about giving it the best possible start in its new environment. From quarantine and pest control to watering and repotting, each step plays a vital role in ensuring your leafy friend thrives.

By taking the time to follow these essential care tips, you’re not only protecting your new plant but also your entire collection.

Ready to bring home a new green beauty? Explore our e-commerce store for plants, pots, and all the supplies you’ll need for a smooth transition.

Happy planting, and may your new plants grow lush and healthy! 🌱

For more gardening tips and personalized advice, stay tuned to our blog or reach out to our plant experts!