Q. When can I expect to receive my Spring 2008 order?

A. Once your order is received by us we will process it and the plants you ordered will be reserved for shipping in the spring. We ship according to climate zone beginning with the warmer zones and moving to the colder zones. So depending on where you live in Canada, your shipment will go out sometime between early April and early May 2008. If you would like to know a more specific date please feel free to contact us for this information. Please note that these shipping times are approximations only and due to circumstances beyond our control shipments may be delayed. We will make every effort, however, to have your product delivered to you in a timely manner.

With the exception of our Instant Spring Gardens, which are shipped separately in mid March 2008 and separate shipping charges will apply, all orders are shipped complete. You can ask us to do otherwise, in which case additional shipping and handling fees may apply.

If you would like any non-plant items such as our Beauty Products, Garden Tools & Gadgets shipped earlier than during our regular spring season please order these items separately and we will ship them to you as soon as possible.

Q. I would like to have an order shipped to a friend. How can I do this?

A. Simply choose the items you would like to have sent and then click the Checkout tab. Once there, you will be asked to fill in your Bill To and Ship To information. Provide us with your friend's address in the Ship To section and we'll do all the rest. We'll ensure that the plants, etc arrive at the correct time for planting in their area as well as making sure that no priced paperwork is included with the gift order!

Q. I would like to order a Gift Certificate but am unable to do so on-line. How can I order one?

A. Due to the fact that our Gift Certificates are available in any dollar denomination and there is no shipping and handling fee for them we ask that you contact us toll free at 1-800-672-3413 to order. We can then also determine if you would like the Gift Certificate sent to your address or to the lucky recipient's. Give us a call...we'd love to hear from you!

Q. I have received a Botanus Gift Certificate and would like to redeem it with my on-line order. How do I go about doing that?

A. Choose the items you would like to receive by placing them in your Shopping Basket. Once you're done, click the Checkout tab. Towards the end of the check out process you will be asked if you have a Gift Certificate to redeem and a space will be provided for you to type in the Gift Certificate number. Please note, that our on-line system is not set up to automatically deduct the value of the Gift Certificate. We will, however, contact you once the Gift Certificate has been validated to let you know the new, reduced total of your order.

Q. What do I do if I am unable to plant my bulbs or bare roots immediately upon receipt?

A. Due to unforeseen weather changes you may not be able to plant your items immediately upon receiving them from us. In this case, we would suggest you follow these steps:

1. Remove the contents of your package from the box and open the plastic packaging to allow for air circulation.
2. It is important that your plants and bulbs are stored in a cool, frost-free, dry place until they can be planted outdoors. Keep in mind, however, that if you store your bulbs and plants you are dealing with items that are perishable. If you have to store them before planting we highly recommend keeping this time to an absolute minimum.
3. To get a jump start on the planting season you may also wish to 'pot up' your bulbs and plants. If so, choose a suitable, well-draining container or pot, plant the bulb or root according to the instructions provided and store in a cool, dry place until they can be safely transplanted outdoors.

Q. Can I plant my bulbs in containers?

A. Absolutely. If you like to enjoy your flowers as long as possible, plant different varieties in layers. The most important thing to remember is that your container should have good drainage. If not, you may risk loosing your bulbs to rot. During extreme cold periods, make sure to move your containers to a sheltered area.

Q. Is it possible that my bulbs and plants won't flower at the same time or at the same height as indicated in books and catalogues?

A. Yes, because temperature treatment and where you are located will affect flowering characteristics and this is due to varying conditions in your garden. For example, bulbs planted in shady areas will usually bloom later and have longer stems.

Q. How many bulbs and plants should I plant in a group?

A. The general rule of thumb is "the more the merrier". Try to plant groups of at least 10 bulbs in a flower border and if you want to create a drift of blooms we suggest at least 50-100 to make a strong visual statement. Remember to use the Spacing measurement (found on the package label) as a guide to how much the bulbs and plants will spread.

Q. I'm not sure which climate zone I live in. How can I find out which zone applies to me?

A. Try clicking on the following link. It will get you directly into Agricultural Canada's hardiness zone map! Agriculture Canada Hardiness Zone Map.