Transporting and Care of Holiday Gift Plants

Potted plants make the perfect hostess or holiday gift. Make sure this present arrives safely so it can be enjoyed throughout the season.

Wrap your plants in paper or plastic to protect them from the often harsh outdoor conditions and jostling that occurs during transport. Remove the wrap as soon as the plants arrive indoors.

Never leave plants in an extremely hot or cold car while running errands. Though the plant may look fine when presented to your friend, the damaged leaves often turn off color and drop in a day or two.

Remove the foil wrap or bend down the sides so light can reach all the leaves and punch holes in the bottom so water can drain. Or place pebbles in the bottom of the decorative wrap. This elevates the pot above the standing water while maintaining the watertight benefits.

And always include a tag with the plant name and directions for care.

A bit more information: And give the recipient permission to enjoy and recycle it in the compost pile if and when it dies. This will remove the stress that some feel when they receive the gift of a living plant. And for those very nervous types; consider a gift of cut flowers instead. That’s what I do for my mother.