Caring for your living gifts

Garden Designer Lucy Willcox

Written by: Crocus Plant Doctor Justin Turner

Last updated: December 2025

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article_caring_for_gift_header

Once received for indoor or outdoor plants, the first steps are the same:

Remove the plant/s from the box

Carefully remove the packaging and check for any damage such as a bent or broken stem

Check for marks and imperfections, and if something doesn’t quite feel right, we’re keen to provide help and advice

We’re very happy to receive pics of your delivery if you’d like us to take a look (see webform)

Once you’re satisfied with your initial check, feel the top 1-2cm of compost to see if the plant has dried in transit (this is common) and requires some water to perk up. Equally, the plant may be a little on the wet side – if so, give the plant a chance to dry out slightly

Again, we can assist here with pics if you’d prefer

If the plant is a houseplant, keep the plant in a brightly lit space, away from drafts/heat sources (e.g. radiators) and try to keep the temperature constant (minimum of 16°C)

If the plant is an outdoor plant, keep it outside in a sheltered spot away from heavy rain and frost - an open porch would be ideal

If you’ve selected the gift wrap option, remove the decorative packaging if you need to water (take a photo before so you know how to re-wrap the gift after watering)

Fabulous flowering gifts