Wholesale plant buying can be the cornerstone of a busy season keeping your supply count up and margins strong – or it could lead to expensive errors. Mistakes come with a big price, as plants are perishable goods and mistakes (wrong sizes or missed delivery windows) can escalate easily into losses. Use these important questions before hit “confirm order” on the supplier side.
What sizes and grades are included?
One thing you should never assume is that a 1L or a 2L plant across different growers will look the same. Specify pot size, plant height/spread range and whether plants are plugs / liners/ potted-on material / specimen stock. Request photos of current batches if you are selling on.
What is the minimum order and lead time?
Volume restrictions are common among wholesale suppliers, whether price is set by variety, tray or delivery. Check the minimum order price and how much in advance you have to book, especially if it’s coming up on springtime when popular lines can sell out far ahead of time. For help with Plants for Trade, visit a site like palmstead.co.uk/wholesale-plants-for-trade-in-kent
Are substitutions allowed?
Will they automatically substitute a similar plant, or will they call you if one variety is short? Decide your preference in advance. Substitution may bode well for maintaining the scheme of a project; however, it can be on slippery ground where you have requirements directed at specific colours or growth habits flowering time etc.
Packing and transportation of plants
Ask how the plants are couriered (on trolleys, pallets,) and what kind of couriers they use. Verify the days of delivery, time slots or ranges and whether they need someone to be present on-site for a signature.
Ideas for delivery day
A good supplier will tell you how to check plants on arrival and when (if ) they need watering/positioning/acclimatisation. Why does this matter? Plants can be sitting at night looking “fine,” only to arrive home the next evening and you will see signs of stress in their leaves.
Losses and Complaints Policy
State what is a safe/correct claim for damage, pests or incorrect amounts and how soon one must inform them about this and with what proof (images/batch labels). You should also inquire if they refund or issue credit notes instead.
By asking these questions of your supplier, you’ll guarantee a smooth running operation and more successful business. Wholesale plant purchase need not be a headache when you are in possession of the full facts and understand the ordering process implicitly.
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