Instructions for Care Upon Arrival of Your Plants

Last updated February 28, 2024

Congratulations on the arrival of your new plants from Plant by Number! We’re excited to help you get started on your gardening journey. Here are some steps to ensure your plants remain healthy and happy from the moment they arrive until you’re ready to install them in your garden.

Unboxing Your Plants:

Careful Unboxing: Gently open the box as soon as your plants arrive. Avoid using sharp objects that might damage the plants or their roots.

Remove Packaging: Carefully remove any additional packaging materials around the plants. This may include protective wrapping or ties meant to secure the plants during transit. Do so gently to avoid causing any damage.

Inspect Your Plants: Give your plants a quick inspection to ensure they are healthy and free from damage. You should find them in vigorous condition, ready for their new home.

Immediate Care After Unboxing:

Watering: Your plants might be a bit thirsty after their journey. Give them a good watering, ensuring the water penetrates the soil or potting mix they’ve arrived in. This will help alleviate any transit stress and rehydrate the plants.

Setting in a Safe Space: Place your plants in a safe, sheltered area. If your plants require plenty of sunlight, make sure this space is well-lit but not exposed to harsh direct sunlight that could stress them immediately after unboxing. A patio or a side garden with indirect light is ideal for this acclimation period.

Storing Before Installation:

We understand that you might not be ready to install your plants immediately upon their arrival. If you need to store your plants for a few days:

Choose an Appropriate Location: Keep your plants in an area that matches their sunlight requirements as closely as possible. If you’re unsure, a location with partial sun and shade throughout the day is generally a safe bet.

Monitor Watering Needs: Check the soil moisture daily. The first few days after arrival are critical, and your plants may require more frequent watering to recover from the stress of transit. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Protect from Extreme Weather: If unexpected weather conditions arise, such as a heatwave or frost, take steps to protect your plants. This may involve moving them indoors or to a more sheltered location temporarily.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your plants will remain healthy and vibrant until you’re ready to introduce them to their permanent spot in your garden. Happy gardening!

FAQs

What do I receive if I select “Printed Fabric”?
  • You will receive a Garden Map, which is the design layout printed on our custom landscape fabric, along with installation instructions.
  • If you want plants to match your design, select “Printed Fabric + Plants”, and coordinating plants will be included.
  • If you select “Printed Fabric” (without plants), you will receive the printed fabric only, but no plants.
  • For fabric-only orders, a plant shopping card is provided to help you find the right plants at your nearest nursery or garden center.
What do I receive if I select “Digital Layout”?
  • You will receive a PDF file of the Digital Blueprint, which provides a scaled layout of the design.
  • You can view it on your device or print it at home.
  • If you’re comfortable reading schematics and handling installation on your own, this option is for you.
Is this just a digital download?
  • If you select “Digital Layout,” you will receive a PDF file of the design.
  • If you select “Printed Fabric,” you will receive a Garden Map printed on landscape fabric.
Are plants included?
  • If plants are available for the design you’re ordering, you will see an option for “Printed Fabric + Plants.”
  • When selected, the price updates to include both the printed fabric and coordinating plants.
  • You will be able to choose from various plant options before checkout.
Can I order just one or a few plants from a design?

No. To provide the best pricing and streamlined shipping, all Spring Collection plants are sold as full packages and cannot be separated.

How do I install the landscape fabric?

Installing your Garden Map is simple, but you will need landscape fabric pins or stakes to secure it properly.

  • Prepare the ground – Clear weeds and level the soil where you will lay the fabric.
  • Roll out the Garden Map – Position it in the selected area.
  • Secure with landscape fabric pins – Use one pin per 2-3 square feet for best results.
    • Recommended pins: 6-inch galvanized steel landscape staples.
    • Example: For a 50 sq. ft. garden, you will need about 20–25 pins.
  • Cut openings – Follow the printed design to cut openings for your plants.
  • Plant and cover – Place your plants, then cover the fabric with mulch or stones to hold moisture and enhance aesthetics.
What supplies do I need to complete a garden project?

To successfully install your Plant By Number Garden, you will need:

  • Plants – Use the recommended quantity and varieties listed in the product description.
  • Landscape fabric pins or stakes – Use one per 2-3 sq. ft. (e.g., 20–25 pins for a 50 sq. ft. design).
  • Mulch or stones – Cover the entire garden area (e.g., 280 sq. ft. of fabric = 280 sq. ft. of mulch or rock).
  • Edging (optional) – Define borders with stone, brick, or plastic edging for a polished look.
  • Garden tools – Shovel, rake, and scissors or a utility knife to cut the fabric.
Should I start with seeds or plants?

We recommend starting with mature plants for the best results:

  • Instant Garden – Get a lush, full look immediately.
  • Faster Growth – Plants bloom and establish quicker than seeds.
  • Less Maintenance – Mature plants require less care than seedlings, which need indoor setup and extra attention.
Is landscape fabric permeable, and does water drain through it?
  • Yes, our premium landscape fabric is designed to be permeable.
  • Water, air, and nutrients can pass through to nourish plant roots while keeping weeds at bay.
  • This makes it ideal for use with mulch or rocks without compromising drainage.
Do I need landscape fabric under mulch or rocks?
  • While not required, using landscape fabric under mulch or rocks helps prevent weeds and reduces maintenance.
  • The fabric acts as a barrier that blocks sunlight, preventing weed growth while allowing water to reach plant roots.
  • It also keeps mulch and rocks from sinking into the soil over time.

Join Our Blooming Gardening Community!

Sign up below to get exclusive deals, discounts, and new plant collections—delivered straight to your inbox! Plus, stay inspired with the latest gardening tips, landscaping trends, and DIY garden ideas.
Start growing with us today!