What to do when plug plants arrive

What to do when plug plants arrive

Fuchsia Postiplugs from T&M
Image: Fuchsia plugs plants from T&M

Plug plants are a very convenient way to fill your garden and vegetable patches. They are faster than sowing seeds, but cheaper than buying fully grown plants and offer a higher success rate. Garden-enabled plug plants can get out as soon as the weather is warm enough, but small plugs may require pots. Here are some quick tips on what to do when the plug plant is delivered:

For inspiration, browse our complete collection of plug plants.

How to take care of a plug plant

Osteospermum plugs plants from T&M
Plug plants have already begun to establish a strong root system
Image: Osteospermum Platt plant from T&M

Plug plants are available in a variety of sizes, from mini “Postiplugs” that fits the jumbo garden-compatible plug through the letterbox. For more information, please see the Plug Plant Size page. Whichever option you choose, here’s how to take care of your plug plant when it arrives:

Even if you don’t have time to plant it right away, just unlock the plant immediately. They will need some air after being surrounded by packages. Give them a drink! Plants may be thirsty for travel, so if they are dry, moisten the soil plug. Don’t worry if the plants look a little sad when they arrive. When you give them a drink, they should be uplifting. Once ready, gently adjust each plug plant from the package, plant each in a 7-9cm pot, and fill it with quality multipurpose compost. This is known as “potting-on.” Gently push the plug plant into the compost and add more to refill the pot if necessary. Do not apply the pot on top with compost – it should be possible to water it. Place the pot in a warm, bright place – a windowsill or table near the window is fine if there is no greenhouse or conservatory. It moistens the compost but does not inundate it.

When to plant plug plants

Lobelia Garden Ready Plup Plant from T&M
The garden ready plug is slightly larger and does not need to grow in
Image: Lobelia Garden Ready Plup Plant from T&M

Once the plug is grown a little, you can think of hardening it being ready to plant. Depending on the weather in your area, you can start this process from late April to mid-May. Move the plants outside during the day and return them to the night.

After your plants are “hardened” for about two weeks, they can be moved to the final position in the garden. Plants with baskets and containers (which can be easily moved indoors or outside) can be planted in containers a little earlier.

Plug plants are a quick and easy way to convert outer space. Grown in optimal conditions by a team of experienced gardeners, they have a high success rate. For an epic summer display, check out our top 10 flowering plug plants. For even more inspiration, browse through the entire range of bedding plants.

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