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What if my order arrived damaged?Updated 3 months ago

What to Do If Your Plant Arrives Damaged

At Cactus Warehouse, we take great care to package and ship our cacti safely, but sometimes shipping can be rough, and plants may arrive with damage. If your plant arrived in less-than-perfect condition, don’t worry! We’re here to help.

1. Assess the Damage

Upon receiving your package, take a close look at your plant. Common shipping-related issues include:

  • Minor Bruising or Scarring: These are typically cosmetic and will heal over time as the cactus grows.

  • Soft, Mushy Spots: This could be a sign of rot from excessive moisture during transit.

  • Broken or Detached Pieces: Some cacti may break or lose sections during shipping, but many can be replanted and will continue to grow.

  • Excessive Drying or Wrinkling: Some drying is normal, especially after shipping. The plant will usually plump back up after watering.

2. What to Do Next

A. Minor Bruising or Discoloration

  • These marks are purely cosmetic and will fade as your cactus continues to grow.

  • Place the cactus in bright, indirect sunlight and allow it to settle in for a few days before watering.

B. Soft, Mushy, or Rotting Areas

  • If any parts of the cactus are soft or mushy, this could indicate rot.

  • Carefully cut away the affected area with a clean, sterilized knife.

  • Let the cut area dry for a few days before placing it in dry soil to avoid further moisture issues.

C. Broken or Detached Pieces

  • If a section of your cactus has broken off, don’t throw it away! Many cacti can be propagated.

  • Let the broken piece dry in a shaded area for 7-14 days until the cut end callouses over.

  • Once calloused, plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it establishes roots.

D. Extremely Dry or Wrinkled Plants

  • Shipping can sometimes leave a cactus looking dehydrated.

  • Allow it to rest in a bright, warm location for a few days.

  • Water lightly once the plant has adjusted, ensuring the soil dries out completely between waterings.

3. Contact Us for Assistance

If your plant has significant damage beyond normal shipping wear and tear, we’re happy to assist! Our 30-Day Customer Happiness Guarantee ensures that if your plant arrives in poor condition, we will work with you to find a solution.

How to Reach Us:

  • Take clear photos of the damaged plant and packaging.

  • Email us at [email protected] with your order number and photos.

  • Describe the issue so we can assess how best to help you.

We may offer a replacement or store credit, depending on the level of damage

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