How to Care for Starter Plants - Starter Plant Plug Planting & Growing Guide

How to Care for Young Plants: Planting and Growing Guide

MicroStarts starter plants are propagated through tissue culture and raised in a greenhouse, which means they need a little extra care and attention as they adjust to life in your garden or home. Whether you're growing a tropical plant, fruit tree, or succulent, this guide covers the essential steps to help your starter plants thrive.

While specific care may vary depending on plant type and your local climate, the following general instructions will help you ensure a successful transition for your new plant plugs.

1. Carefully unpack each plant

Handle each plant gently when unpacking your order. Be careful not to disturb the roots or to rip the plug, as this can cause stress of transplant shock.

2. Check for moisture

Before planting, check if the soil in the plug feels moist. If it’s dry, place the plug in a small cup of water for 5–20 minutes to rehydrate the soil. Proper moisture is key to helping your plant bounce back from shipping and adjust to its new environment.

3. Plant your plugs ASAP!

For best results, transplant your starter plugs into soil right away. Follow these tips when planting:

  • Be very gentle with the roots - do not break up or disturb them.
  • Make sure the base of the plant sits level with the top of the soil once it settles.
  • Use high-quality, well-draining soil suited to your plant type.

Delaying transplanting or rough handling can lead to transplant shock, so handle with care.

4. Keep your plant hydrated after transplanting

Water your starter plant gently right after planting. To help it recover, increase humidity if possible:

  • Use a miniature greenhouse (like a clear humidity dome).
  • Mist the plant regularly, especially in dry environments.

5. Keep out of direct sunlight

After transplanting, keep your plant in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun until you notice new growth, which signals that your plant is recovering from transplanting.

6. Acclimate Your Plant Slowly

Once your plant shows signs of new growth (like new leaves), if your plant will ultimately live outdoors, begin the acclimation process to get it ready for outdoor conditions.

Tips for successful acclimation:

  • Gradually increase sun exposure over several weeks.
  • Reduce humidity over time if you live in a drier region.
  • Acclimation usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the season, plant health, and growth rate.

Climate considerations:

  • In summer, protect young plants from intense afternoon heat until they’ve matured. In winter, keep starter plants indoors.
  • Most young plants - especially tropicals - cannot tolerate freezing temperatures or sudden dormancy.

For young starter trees, wait until they grow 1–2 feet tall before planting outdoors full time.

7. Monitor your plant's progress

Watch your plant as it grows! Look for signs of healthy development such as:

  • New leaves or stems
  • Root growth (visible through drainage holes, if potted)
  • No signs of stress, pests, or discoloration

At MicroStarts, we offer a wide range of starter plants, including tropical plants, fruit trees, succulents, and more. If you have questions or run into any issues, feel free to contact our care team at support@microstarts.com - we’re always happy to help!

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