If purchased soon after the plants arrive at the merchant, the plants often grow satisfactorily, but seldom do well if they have dried out or have produced new thin, yellow or pale green leaves and stems. If only a small amount of new tender growth has occurred, they may grow satisfactorily but should be hardened off before planting outdoors. Mail order companies frequently offer a wider selection of perennials than most local nurseries. While most mail order companies are reputable, a few tend to be misleading in their claims and specialize in offering small, lower-grade plants. Most companies guarantee their plants and will replace those that arrive in poor condition or fail to grow properly.
Most companies ship plants bare root or in small containers.
When the plants arrive check to ensure that they are moist.