Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to April Farm! Whether you're ordering your first succulent or adding another rare find to your collection, we're here to help. Below are answers to some of the questions we receive most often.

Green succulent cluster in a white potWhite rosette succulents held in a handGreen rosette succulents in a polka dot mug

Shipping & Delivery

1. Do you ship succulents during winter?

Yes! We ship throughout the year, including the colder months.

When temperatures are expected to drop below 40°F during transit, we strongly recommend adding a heat pack to your order to help protect your plants from the cold.

We offer both 72-hour and 96-hour heat packs. Choose the one that best matches your expected shipping time. If your package may sit outside or in a mailbox after delivery, we also recommend adding USPS Signature Confirmation so the carrier can hand it to someone directly.

If you choose to ship without a heat pack, please understand that we cannot be responsible for plant loss or cold damage caused by low temperatures. Depending on the weather, orders without heat packs may also be held until conditions are safer for shipping.

Our goal is always to get your plants to you safely!

2. Why do you ship succulents bare-root?

Most of our succulents are shipped bare-root, meaning they arrive without a pot and with most or all of the soil removed.

This helps reduce excess moisture around the roots, minimize the risk of rot, and prevent soil and pots from shifting or damaging the plants during transit. It also makes shipping safer and more efficient.

Some plants may arrive with a few fine roots or a small amount of soil remaining.

When your plants arrive, simply unpack them and pot them in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Our plants are prepared and dried before shipping, so they're ready to be planted and watered after arrival.

3. How long does it take to ship my order?

We usually prepare and ship orders within 1–3 business days.

Once your order has shipped, delivery time depends on the shipping method you select and the carrier's schedule. Please keep in mind that carrier delays may occasionally occur, especially during holidays or severe weather.

You'll receive a tracking number once your order is on its way.

4. What should I do when my succulents arrive?

We recommend unpacking your plants as soon as they arrive rather than leaving them inside the shipping box.

Here are a few simple steps:

  1. Unpack and inspect: Carefully remove your plants and check for any damage or loose leaves.
  2. Remove damaged leaves: Gently remove any dry, loose, or rotten leaves.
  3. Pot your plants: Use a well-draining succulent soil mix.
  4. Water your plants: Our plants are dried before shipping, so you can water them thoroughly after planting.
  5. Give them time to adjust: Keep newly arrived plants in bright, indirect light at first. Gradually introduce stronger sunlight as they adjust.

Don't worry if your plants look a little different after shipping. Some leaves may loosen, colors may change, and plants may look slightly dehydrated. This is normal after traveling in a dark box and can improve as they settle into their new environment.

Returns & Plant Guarantee

5. Do you accept returns or exchanges on live plants?

Because succulents are live and delicate plants, we do not accept returns or exchanges simply because you change your mind or don't like the plant.

However, if your plant arrives damaged or rotten, or dies within 3 days of delivery, please contact us promptly. We will be happy to help with a refund or replacement, in accordance with our plant guarantee.

If your package is damaged during shipping, please keep the box and damaged items, as the carrier may need to inspect them.

For complete details, please visit our Return or Cancellation Policy.

Plants & Growing

6. Do you ship internationally?

International shipping availability may vary depending on the destination and applicable shipping regulations. Please contact us before placing your order, and we'll be happy to help you check whether we can ship to your country.

7. Are your Dudleyas wild-collected?

No! All of our Dudleyas are nursery-propagated, not wild-collected.

We believe in responsible growing and protecting natural plant populations. Our Dudleyas are cultivated in nurseries, so you can enjoy these beautiful and unique plants without contributing to the removal of plants from their natural habitats.

8. Can I visit your nursery in person?

Absolutely! We'd love to welcome you to April Farm in West Boylston, Massachusetts.

You can explore our greenhouse, see our plants in person, and discover varieties that may not always be available online.

Our nursery store is open to visitors during regular business hours. Please check our latest store hours before making the trip!

9. Do you offer wholesale?

Yes! Wholesale purchasing is available in person at our nursery store in West Boylston, Massachusetts, during regular store hours.

We do not accept wholesale orders online. Please visit us in person to browse our available selection and discuss wholesale purchases.

10. How should I care for Lithops and Echeverias after shipping?

These two types of succulents have different care needs, so it's important to treat them a little differently after arrival.

Lithops (Living Stones)

  • Plant them in a very well-draining, gritty soil mix.
  • They may look darker or slightly wrinkled after shipping due to dehydration. This is normal.
  • Provide plenty of bright light, introducing direct sunlight gradually.
  • Avoid frequent watering. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of Lithops loss.

Echeverias

  • Plant them in a well-draining succulent soil mix.
  • Water thoroughly after planting.
  • Give them bright, indirect light at first, then gradually introduce more sunlight.
  • Allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.
  • Good airflow and plenty of light help maintain their compact shape and beautiful colors.

If you're unsure about a particular plant, feel free to reach out. We're always happy to help!

Boxes & Live Sales

11. What is the Subscription Box?

Our Succulent Subscription Box is a great way to discover new plants and grow your collection!

Each box includes 4 carefully selected succulents and ships once a month. Every month brings a new surprise selection, featuring different varieties from our collection.

It's perfect for succulent lovers who enjoy discovering new plants without having to choose each one individually.

Interested in subscribing? Explore our Succulent Subscription Box here.

12. How do your live sales work?

We host live plant sales on TikTok and Palmstreet, where you can see the actual plants on camera before purchasing.

Our live sales are also where you'll find many special and rare plants that aren't listed on our website! It's a great opportunity to discover unique varieties and get a closer look at each plant before claiming it.

Here's how it works:

  1. Join one of our live streams.
  2. Our host shows each plant on camera and announces its name and price.
  3. When you see something you love, simply claim it directly in the live chat.
  4. The first viewer to claim the plant gets it!

You can see available plants, claim your favorites, and ask questions about plant care in real time.

Follow us to catch our upcoming live sales:

We hope to see you in our next live sale!