👉 Do this first:

• Open the box as soon as possible
• Remove all packaging
• Stand the plugs upright

Why this matters:

• Plants need air after transport
• They may be slightly flattened or dry
• Leaving them boxed can stress them

👉 If you can’t plant straight away:

• Place in a bright, cool spot
• Avoid direct sunlight and heat

✅ 2. Check Moisture & Water Gently

Plant plugs often arrive slightly dry after delivery.

👉 What to do:

• Lightly water the compost around the plugs
• Use a gentle watering can or spray
• Avoid soaking the leaves heavily

💡 Tip:

• If very dry, stand plugs in a shallow tray of water for a few minutes
• Let them drain fully afterwards

✅ 3. Give Them Time to Recover

After unpacking and watering:

👉 Leave plants for a few hours to settle

This helps:

• Reduce shock
• Allow leaves to perk up
• Prepare them for potting on

👉 You’ll often see them improve within hours

✅ 4. Pot On Your Plant Plugs (Most Important Step)

Most plant plugs need potting on before going outside.

👉 You’ll need:

• 9–10cm pots
• Multipurpose compost
• A dibber or finger

👉 Simple method:

1. Fill pots with compost
2. Make a hole slightly larger than the plug
3. Gently remove the plug (hold leaves, not stems)
4. Place into the hole at same depth
5. Firm lightly
6. Water gently

👉 For full step-by-step help:
Learn how to pot on plug plants

✅ 5. Place in the Right Growing Conditions

After potting on:

👉 Best location:

• Bright but not harsh sunlight
• Frost-free space
• Windowsill, greenhouse, or sheltered area

👉 Ideal conditions:

• Daylight but not full midday sun
• Temperatures above ~7°C at night
• Good airflow

✅ 6. Water Correctly (Don’t Overdo It)

This is where a lot of beginners go wrong.

👉 Water when needed — not constantly

✔ Keep compost moist
❌ Avoid waterlogging

💡 Easy rule:

• If the top feels dry → water
• If still damp → leave it

✅ 7. Start Hardening Off (Before Going Outside)

Before planting outdoors, your plugs need to adjust.

👉 Hardening off process:

• Put outside during the day
• Bring back in at night
• Repeat for 7–10 days

This prevents:

• Shock
• Leaf scorch
• Slow growth

✅ 8. Plant Them Out When Ready

Once your plugs are: ✔ Established in pots
✔ Hardened off
✔ Weather is suitable

👉 You can plant into:

• Borders
• Pots
• Hanging baskets

👉 Timing guide:

• Spring: after last frost
• Summer: anytime
• Autumn: great for perennials

🌿 Ready to Get Started?

Once your plugs are settled and growing strongly:

👉 Browse our full range here:
👉 Shop plug plants

✅ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Leaving plugs in the box too long
❌ Overwatering immediately
❌ Planting outside too early
❌ Handling by stems (always use leaves)
❌ Skipping hardening off

✅ FAQs

What should I do immediately after plant plugs arrive?

Unpack, stand upright, check moisture, and water lightly if needed.

Do I need to pot on plug plants straight away?

Yes — most plugs need potting on within 24 hours for best results.

Can I plant plugs straight into the garden?

Only larger plugs — most smaller plugs should be potted on first.

How long before plug plants can go outside?

Usually 10–14 days, after potting on and hardening off.

Why do plant plugs look weak on arrival?

Transport stress is normal — they usually recover quickly after watering and light.