Buying palm trees online has become increasingly popular in Florida, and for good reason — you can browse species, compare prices, and order from your couch. But online plant buying has pitfalls that can cost you hundreds of dollars if you are not careful. Here is how to shop smart.
Online Palm Buying: Two Very Different Models
Model 1: Mail-Order / Shipped Palms
Companies ship palms via FedEx, UPS, or freight carriers. Palms arrive bare-root or in small containers. This works for small palms (1-3 gallon) but is problematic for larger specimens. Shipping stress, temperature extremes during transit, and root damage are real risks.
Model 2: Local Delivery / Installed
Florida-based nurseries and plant companies deliver palms directly to your property on a truck and install them on-site. The palms are dug fresh from a field or selected from a nursery, transported a short distance, and planted the same day. This is by far the better option for any palm larger than a 7-gallon container.
What to Look for When Buying Online
- ✓Clear photos of actual inventory (not stock photos)
- ✓Specific size information — trunk height, overall height, container size
- ✓Species name (both common and scientific) accurately listed
- ✓Guarantee policy — at least 30 days for establishment
- ✓Reviews from verified Florida buyers
- ✓Florida-based business with a physical location or nursery
- ✓Clear delivery and installation pricing
Red Flags to Avoid
- ✓Prices dramatically below market — usually unhealthy or undersized plants
- ✓No photos of actual nursery or inventory
- ✓No guarantee or return policy
- ✓Ships from out of state — palms suffer in long transit
- ✓Vague sizing like "small" or "medium" without measurements
- ✓No phone number or customer service contact
Best Practice: For palms under $100, mail-order can work fine. For anything larger, always choose a Florida-based company that delivers and installs. The survival rate is dramatically higher, and you can see the actual palm before it goes in the ground.
Why Florida Palm and Plant Co. Delivers Differently
Florida Palm and Plant Co. sources palms directly from top Florida growers and delivers them on our own trucks. Every palm is hand-selected for health and form. We offer free delivery on qualifying orders and professional installation that ensures your palm establishes quickly and thrives long-term.
Browse our selection or call (239) 799-5594 to discuss what you are looking for. We deliver throughout Florida.