How to Acclimate Imported Plants (Bare-Root) After DHL

By Greenhouse AFL • Bogor • 23 Aug 2026 • 5 min read • For Scindapsus, Philodendron, Monstera, Anthurium

Imported plant acclimation

Your plant traveled 3–5 days bare-root in moss from Bogor to your door. A little yellowing or curling is normal — it just needs a gentle 2-week acclimation. Follow this export-tested routine we give to collectors in the USA, UK, and Canada.

Live Arrival Guarantee: Please record a clear, unedited unboxing video within 24 hours. If the plant arrives dead, send the video via WhatsApp and we’ll replace (you pay shipping) or refund.

Step 1 — Unbox & Inspect (Day 0)

Open the rigid box, remove dacron/paper, and keep the moss slightly moist. Do not repot immediately. Check roots: healthy roots are white/tan firm, not mushy. Take photos/video.

What is normal?

Step 2 — Root Soak & Potting (Day 0–1)

Soak roots 10–15 minutes in room-temp water + a drop of vitamin B1 or seaweed (optional). Pot in airif mix: 50% sphagnum moss + 30% perlite + 20% coco chips — the same mix we use in Bogor. Use a clear 12–14cm pot with drainage. Keep moss moist, not soggy.

Potting mix

Step 3 — Humidity Dome (Day 1–7)

Place the pot in a humidity dome, clear plastic box, or large ziplock (leave a small opening). Keep 75–85% humidity, 22–26°C, bright indirect light (no direct sun). Open 5 minutes daily for fresh air. Roots will rehydrate and new growth will start.

Do not fertilize for the first 2 weeks. Do not place in dark corner or full sun.

Step 4 — Light & Water (Week 2 onwards)

After 7 days, gradually open the dome more. Water when top 2cm moss is dry. Move to bright indirect (Scindapsus/Philodendron) or filtered morning sun (Monstera/Anthurium). Expect a new leaf in 2–4 weeks.

Export Packing Recap (Why Bare-Root?)

International customs forbids soil. We wrap roots in premium sphagnum, protect foliage with soft paper, and use double-wall box — the same method DHL approves for live plants. Your Phytosanitary Certificate is included in the document pouch.

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