Flowering Plants Care Guide

For Roses, Hydrangeas, Clematis, Camellias, and Bougainvillea

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Plants may need some time to adjust after shipping. Please unpack and plant them as soon as possible after arrival.

First Steps After Arrival

1. Remove the Plastic Wrap

Please remove all plastic wrap and packaging materials after the plant arrives. Plants can be planted directly in the ground or potted immediately.

2. If the Root Ball Feels Very Dry

If the root ball feels extremely dry, you may soak the root ball in water for 2–5 hours to help rehydrate the plant. Keep the plastic wrap while soaking.

3. Choose the Proper Pot Size

Please use an appropriately sized pot based on the size of the plant purchased. Except for bougainvillea, we do not recommend keeping plants in very small pots long-term.

Important: Do NOT Fertilize Immediately

Please do not add any fertilizer when planting. Wait until the plant has fully stabilized for about 2–3 months before applying fertilizer on the soil surface.

We strongly recommend using:

  • Slow-release fertilizer
  • Well-fermented commercial fertilizer

Please DO NOT use:

  • Homemade compost
  • Fresh chicken manure
  • Cow manure
  • Sheep manure

Freshly transplanted plants have weak roots and can easily suffer root burn from strong fertilizer.

Soil Requirements

Any commercial potting soil can be used.

We highly recommend:

  • Succulent soil
  • Loose, airy, well-draining soil mixes

Please DO NOT use:

  • Soil dug directly from the ground
  • Vegetable garden soil
  • Heavy compacted soil

Good drainage and airflow are extremely important for healthy root growth.

In-Ground Planting

For in-ground planting, dig a hole at least twice the size of the original root ball.

Recommended planting steps:

  1. Fill the hole with loose, high-quality soil
  2. Place the plant with the original root ball intact
  3. Backfill with soil
  4. Water thoroughly immediately after planting

Care Instructions by Plant Type

Roses

When planting roses, please keep the crown, branching point, or graft union above the soil surface.

Care tips:

  • Leave spacing between large plants for airflow
  • Water thoroughly after planting
  • Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
  • Roses can tolerate full sun in warmer climates

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas should NOT be planted in strong direct sunlight. Please place them in a shaded, well-ventilated location with bright indirect light.

Care tips:

  • Hydrangeas love moisture
  • Keep soil consistently moist
  • Except for Chinese Tree Hydrangea, most hydrangeas prefer shade

Clematis

Clematis should NOT be planted in strong direct sunlight. Please place them in a shaded, well-ventilated location with bright indirect light.

Care tips:

  • Clematis dislike soggy soil
  • Water after the top layer of soil starts to dry
  • Good airflow is very important

Camellias

Camellias should NOT be planted in strong direct sunlight. Please place them in a shaded, well-ventilated location with bright indirect light.

Care tips:

  • Camellias prefer shade
  • Avoid overwatering
  • Water after the soil surface begins to dry

Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea are extremely sensitive to overwatering. If growing in pots, we recommend starting with a smaller pot (around 1 gallon).

Care tips:

  • Allow soil to dry completely between watering
  • Water deeply, then allow to dry out
  • Keep in partial sun for the first two weeks after arrival
  • Gradually transition to full sun afterward

“Partial sun” means gentle morning sunlight rather than intense afternoon heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Should I wash the roots before planting?

No. Please keep the original root ball intact and plant directly without washing the roots.

2. Can I use soil directly from my yard?

We do not recommend it. Whether planting in pots or in the ground, avoid using heavy native soil directly.

3. Can I add fertilizer at planting?

No. It is safest to fertilize after the first bloom cycle has finished.

4. Should I spray pesticides immediately after arrival?

Not necessary unless there are obvious signs of pests or disease.

5. Why are very small pots not recommended?

Except for bougainvillea, most plants should not stay in undersized pots long-term. Small pots heat up very quickly under direct sun and may damage roots.

6. Does airflow matter?

Yes. Please keep plants in a well-ventilated area and avoid overcrowding plants together.

7. Why are some stems turning yellow?

Some varieties naturally develop yellowish stems under strong sunlight. This is normal.

8. Why is the tip of the stem slightly black?

This is usually caused by natural healing or growth stress after pruning/shipping. Please DO NOT cut it off, as it may continue receding downward.

9. Can I use decorative rocks around the plant?

We strongly do NOT recommend placing rocks around the root zone. If you must use rocks, keep at least a 12 inch radius clear around the base of the plant. Rocks become extremely hot under direct sun and may damage roots while reducing airflow.

10. Can I put clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot?

We do not recommend placing clay pebbles directly against the soil. Without proper separation, they may actually increase compaction and drainage issues.