Your guava plant has been through a lot getting to you, and how you treat it in the first few weeks makes a real difference in how quickly it settles in. Here's what to do from the moment it arrives.
Check for Shipping Stress
It's normal for a shipped plant to look a little tired: some leaf droop, curling, or a few yellow leaves. Give it a once-over when it arrives, trim off any leaves that are fully brown or mushy, and don't panic over minor wilting. It should perk back up within a few days once it's watered and settled.
Hydrate Before Anything Else
Water thoroughly as soon as you unbox it, until water runs from the drainage holes. Guava likes consistently moist soil while it's establishing, so check the top inch of soil daily for the first couple of weeks and water whenever it starts to dry out.
Keep It in the Pot for Now
Resist the urge to plant right away. Give your guava 2 to 3 weeks in its nursery pot in a sheltered spot so the roots can recover from shipping before they have to deal with a new environment. If you plan to keep it containerized long-term, our guide to growing guava in a container walks through pot size and potting mix.
Acclimate to Sun Gradually
Guava wants full sun long-term, but a plant fresh from a shipping box can scorch if it goes straight into harsh afternoon light. Start it in bright, indirect light or morning sun only, then increase direct sun exposure over 1 to 2 weeks until it's ready for a full-sun spot.
When to Plant in the Ground
Once your guava has settled in, shows new growth, and has been acclimated to full sun, it's ready to go in the ground (weather permitting) or up to a larger container. Keep an eye out for pests during this transition; see our guide to common guava pests and diseases if anything looks off. And if you're still deciding which variety fits your space, our guava varieties compared post breaks down dwarf, pineapple, and strawberry guava.