Gardening is not just a fun pastime, but also is a way of promoting biodiversity, sustainability, and organic, wholesome food. Whether you sell plants commercially or as a home gardener, packing is essential to making sure your plants and garden supplies arrive at your destination unscathed and undamaged.
You will find many packaging companies providing you with packaging products which are practical, environmentally responsible, and are strong and sturdy enough to keep fragile plants safe while being transported or stored. The fundamental packaging supplies needed for gardening will be discussed in this article, along with how they assist nurseries and gardeners in preserving the quality of their plants.
Containers and Plant Pots
Plant pots are necessary whether you are raising seedlings, moving plants, or showing them off for retail. Although you can customise the packaging boxes, as many companies are providing you with custom packaging UK, however, it is also essential to know about some of the containers and pots which help you in gardening.
Plastic Pots: Often used in home gardens and nurseries, plastic pots are affordable and lightweight. They can be repeatedly used and provide good drainage.
Biodegradable Planters: Biodegradable planters are beneficial to the environment in so many ways as they decompose the soil after planting and this is because they are made up of elements like peat, coconut coir, or compressed paper.
Terracotta Pots: Although they are delicate and fragile, they are heavier at the same time.
Fabric Pots: These containers are breathable and they improve the root aeration, thereby making the root system strong. They are mainly used for planting vegetables, large plants and herbs.
Seed Packaging
Paper Envelopes: They are affordable and recyclable and mainly used for small scale seed packaging. You have to make them line with a wax coating so that they become more moisture resistant.
Pouches made of foil: The best defence against factors that can deteriorate seed quality, including as air, light, and moisture, is provided by foil seed packages. You can use them for long term storing of the seeds.
Plastic Ziplock Bags: These bags have an airtight seal that helps preserve the freshness of seeds and guards against contamination when used for shipment or temporary seed storage.
Bags for Soil and Fertiliser
For retail and bulk distribution, soil and fertilisers must be packaged properly. The bags used for soil fertiliser protect the contents from getting contaminated. They also protect them from other external forces like moisture. At the same time, they easily handle these contents.
Bags made of plastic: Plastic bags are reasonably priced, long-lasting, and resistant to moisture. They are frequently used for potting soil, compost, and fertilisers. However, they are made up of plastic, and may contribute to pollution and contamination, if they are not disposed of properly.
Compostable or biodegradable bags: Biodegradable or compostable bags are becoming more and more common as the gardening industry moves towards more environmentally friendly methods. They are made up of plant based elements like paper and cornflour, therefore, these bogs decompose organically, thereby protecting the environment from further depletion.
Bulk Sacks: Woven polypropylene bulk sacks are utilised for bigger amounts of mulch, compost, or dirt. The sacks can be reused again and again and they are so strong that they can carry heavy weight without getting ruptured.
Materials for Plant Wrapping
Using protective wrapping materials that cushion fragile plants and prevent damage during transit is crucial when exporting plants. Some of the plant wrapping materials are:
Kraft Paper: Also known as the brown parcel paper, this packaging material is strong, durable and biodegradable. It provides an additional layer of protection to leaves and stems. It also helps in absorbing the excessive moisture.
Corrugated Cardboard: The corrugated cardboard is used for supporting the structure or protecting the sleeves. It is a recyclable and reusable packaging material which helps in keeping the plant upright.
Tissue Paper: It is a soft, lightweight material used for wrapping flowers and roots.
Bubble Wrap: You can use it for cushioning and insulating plants during shipping and transit. It is better to opt for eco-friendly substitutes, such as packing peanuts that decompose naturally. You can use a large roll of bubble wrap for your gardening purpose.
