What will I receive when I order?

You'll receive the item listed on this page, carefully packed to protect it in transit. If it's a live plant, it's supplied as a young, healthy plant ready to pot on or plant out after hardening off.

Are your plants suitable for beginners?

Yes. We choose strong stock and provide clear growing guidance so beginners can get great results. If you're unsure where to start, choose an easy-care variety and follow the basic potting and watering steps.

How quickly do you dispatch orders?

Orders are packed and dispatched as quickly as possible, with live plants prioritised for freshness. Dispatch speed can vary with weather conditions to protect plant quality.

How are live plants packaged for delivery?

Live plants are packed to reduce movement and prevent damage, with protection around the root area and foliage where needed. This helps them arrive in the best condition possible.

What should I do when my plants arrive?

Unpack straight away, check moisture, and place plants somewhere bright and sheltered. If they're young plants, pot them on if needed and harden them off before planting outside.

Can I order more than one item and combine postage?

Yes. Ordering multiple items together is a great way to build a planting scheme and usually works out more efficient than separate orders.

Do you deliver across the UK?

Yes. We ship within the UK. If your area has specific delivery restrictions for live plants, we'll follow the correct requirements.

What happens if something arrives damaged?

Contact us as soon as possible with photos of the packaging and item. We'll put it right quickly and fairly.

Are plug plants “garden ready” when they arrive?

They're young plants, so they may need potting on and a short period of growing-on. Once roots strengthen and the plant is actively growing, it's ready to plant out after hardening off.

Plug Plants: The Complete UK Guide

Q: What are plug plants?

Plug plants are young plants grown in individual cells, designed to be potted on to grow stronger before planting out. They're a cost-effective way to fill borders, baskets, and beds.

November 5, 2025

Plug Plants: The Complete UK Guide

What Are Plug Plants?

Plug plants are young plants grown in small cells or trays, ready to be transplanted into pots or garden beds. They offer a head start compared to seeds, saving time and reducing germination risks. Dartana specialises in strong, UK-grown plugs, including our unique XL size for faster establishment.

Plug Plant Sizes Explained

Standard Plugs (3–5cm): Ideal for bedding plants and quick potting-on.
XL Plugs: Larger root systems for rapid growth and fewer losses. Perfect for gardeners who want instant impact.

Tip: Bigger plugs mean less time to flowering and stronger resilience.

When to Plant Plug Plants in the UK

Timing is key:

Spring: Great for bedding and annuals.
Summer: Ideal for late colour and container displays.
Autumn: Perfect for overwintering hardy perennials.

For detailed seasonal advice, see When to Plant Plug Plants in the UK

How to Pot-On Plug Plants (Step-by-Step)

Prepare clean pots and fresh compost.
Water plugs lightly before handling.
Make a hole in compost, insert plug, and firm gently.
Water thoroughly and keep in a bright, frost-free spot.

Need a full walkthrough? Read How to Pot-On Plug Plants (Beginner’s Step-by-Step)

Best Plug Plants for Beginners

Start with easy performers like begonias, geraniums, and petunias. For shade, try fuchsias or impatiens. For baskets, trailing lobelia is a winner.

Delivery & Packaging

All Dartana plug plants are packed in 100% recycled R-PET trays and shipped via Royal Mail 24/48 tracked service for speed and security.

FAQs

What are plug plants and why choose them over seeds? They save time, reduce germination risk, and give you a head start.

What size plug plant should I buy? Beginners often choose XL plugs for ease and quick results.

Do plug plants need hardening off? Yes, acclimatise them outdoors gradually before planting out.

How soon will plug plants flower? Typically 6–8 weeks after potting-on, depending on variety.

How does Dartana package and deliver plug plants? In recycled trays, with tracked delivery for peace of mind.

Internal Links

When to Plant Plug Plants in the UK

How to Pot-On Plug Plants (Beginner’s Step-by-Step)

Dartana Plants