Frequently Asked Questions

Our MOQ varies by species and product type. For bare-root trees, the minimum is typically 500–1,000 units per variety. For container-grown and balled-and-burlapped specimens, MOQ is usually 100–300 units. We are a B2B wholesale nursery catering to municipal projects, landscape contractors, and international distributors — please contact us with your project requirements for a customized quote.

Yes, we offer sample orders for quality evaluation. Sample shipments are available for most varieties in small quantities (5–10 plants). Clients are responsible for sample shipping costs and any applicable phytosanitary fees. We recommend reviewing our detailed product photos and specification sheets before requesting samples to streamline the process.

Simply contact us via email at sales@virturaintl.com or through the contact form on our website. Please specify the varieties, sizes (caliper/height), quantities, and your destination country. Our sales team typically responds within 24–48 business hours with a detailed quotation including plant pricing, estimated freight, and documentation costs.

We export a wide range of ornamental nursery stock including: Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum), Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Cherry Blossom (Prunus serrulata), Crabapple (Malus spp.), Oleander, Photinia, Boxwood, Privet, Gardenia, Red Copperleaf, Lotus, Water Canna (Thalia dealbata), Liriope, Nandina, and many more. Browse our product collections or contact us for our complete availability list updated seasonally.

Yes. For large-scale projects, we offer contract growing services where we propagate and cultivate specific species and quantities according to your timeline and specifications. Contract growing typically requires 6–24 months lead time depending on the species and target sizes. Early planning is recommended to secure production capacity.

Lead time depends on order size, seasonality, and preparation requirements. For in-stock bare-root stock during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring), orders can be prepared within 2–4 weeks. Container-grown stock is available year-round with a 3–6 week preparation window. Large or custom orders may require 8–12 weeks. We always confirm the timeline during quotation.

Wholesale pricing is calculated based on species, size (caliper or height), quantity, packing method (bare-root, balled-and-burlapped, or container), and destination. We offer tiered volume discounts for larger orders. All quotes are provided in USD and are valid for 30 days unless otherwise stated. Freight, phytosanitary certification, and fumigation costs are quoted separately.

We ship via sea freight (FCL or LCL), air freight, and land transport depending on urgency and destination. For most international B2B orders, sea freight in refrigerated or ventilated containers is the standard and most cost-effective option. Air freight is available for urgent or high-value shipments. Our logistics team recommends the optimal method based on plant species, transit time tolerance, and your budget.

We use professional, species-specific packing methods. Bare-root plants are wrapped with moisture-retaining substrates (e.g., peat moss or hydrogel) and sealed in breathable plastic with proper labeling. Container-grown plants are secured in trays or pallets to prevent movement. Balled-and-burlapped specimens are reinforced with wire baskets. All shipments include humidity control materials and structural support to minimize transit stress. We continuously refine our packing based on route-specific data.

Shipping costs depend on order volume (CBM), weight, destination port, and freight method. We work with multiple international logistics partners to offer competitive rates. For an accurate freight estimate, please provide your destination port and approximate order size. Freight costs are quoted separately from plant pricing and are subject to market fluctuations at the time of booking.

Transit times vary by shipping method and destination: Sea freight to the Middle East typically takes 15–25 days; to Europe 25–35 days; to Africa 20–40 days; and to Central Asia 15–30 days. Air freight shipments arrive within 5–10 days to most destinations. These are approximate and may vary due to port congestion, customs clearance, and seasonal factors. We provide real-time tracking for all shipments.

We provide all necessary export documentation from China, including the commercial invoice, packing list, phytosanitary certificate, and certificate of origin. Customs clearance at the destination port is the responsibility of the buyer or the buyer's customs broker. However, our logistics team can recommend trusted customs brokers in your region and assist with any documentation questions from your country's authorities.

Yes. Once your order is shipped, you will receive the Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight) number, which can be tracked through the carrier's website. We also provide regular status updates throughout the transit process, including departure notification, in-transit milestones, and arrival alerts at the destination port.

Our primary export ports are Shanghai, Ningbo, and Wuhan (Yangtze River port). The specific port is selected based on your destination, container availability, and the shipping line's schedule to optimize transit time and cost. For Central Asian destinations, we also offer rail freight and land transport options via Xinjiang border crossings.

Yes. Every international plant shipment from Autumn Field Nursery includes a phytosanitary certificate issued by the China Customs (General Administration of Customs, P.R.C.). This certificate confirms that the plants have been inspected and are free from quarantine pests and diseases as required by international plant protection standards (IPPC).

Each international shipment includes: (1) Commercial Invoice, (2) Detailed Packing List with species names and quantities, (3) Phytosanitary Certificate, (4) Certificate of Origin (upon request), and (5) Bill of Lading or Air Waybill. Additional documents such as fumigation certificates, CITES permits (if applicable), and certificate of conformity can be arranged based on your destination country's requirements.

We have experience shipping to over 20 countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. We stay updated on import regulations for our key markets. However, import regulations can change, and specific plant species may have additional restrictions. We recommend that buyers verify import eligibility with their local plant protection organization (NPPO) before placing an order. We are happy to provide the HS codes and scientific names needed for this verification.

Yes. For destinations requiring phytosanitary treatment, we can arrange methyl bromide fumigation or heat treatment (specific temperatures and durations) by certified treatment providers. Treatment certificates are issued along with the phytosanitary certificate. Please inform us of any treatment requirements during the quotation stage so we can factor them into the timeline and cost.

CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) regulates the international trade of certain protected plant species. Most of our commonly exported nursery stock (e.g., Red Maple, Cherry Blossom, Photinia) does not require CITES permits. However, if you are ordering species listed under CITES Appendices, we will assist with the permit application process. Please check with us during the inquiry stage if you are unsure.

While the import permit is the buyer's responsibility, we provide all necessary supplier documentation to support your application. This includes our nursery registration documents, production site details, plant species lists, and phytosanitary history. We have assisted clients in countries with strict biosecurity regimes (including GCC states, EU member states, and Central Asian republics) with their documentation requirements.

If plants arrive with significant damage due to packing or handling issues attributable to our end, we will assess the damage based on photographic evidence and the inspection report. We may offer replacement plants at cost, a credit toward future orders, or a partial refund proportional to the damage. All claims must be submitted within 72 hours of receiving the shipment with clear photos and a detailed description.

Due to the nature of live plants and the variables involved in international transit, planting conditions, and post-arrival care (which are outside our control), we do not offer a blanket survival guarantee. However, we do guarantee that all plants leave our nursery in healthy condition, properly packed, and accompanied by valid phytosanitary certification. Our scientific packing methods and 20+ years of export experience have resulted in consistently low in-transit loss rates.

To report an issue, please email sales@virturaintl.com within 72 hours of receiving your shipment. Include your order number, clear photographs of the affected plants, photographs of the packaging, and a written description of the issue. We will review your claim promptly and propose a resolution. Delayed claims beyond 72 hours without prior communication may not be eligible for compensation.

International live plant shipments cannot be returned due to phytosanitary regulations and the perishable nature of the products. Exchanges are handled on a case-by-case basis — if you received incorrect species or sizes due to our error, we will arrange replacement plants with the next available shipment. Please review your order confirmation carefully before shipment to avoid discrepancies.

Compensation is assessed case by case. If in-transit losses exceed normal expectations (typically under 5% for well-established shipping routes), we may provide credit toward future orders, replacement plants at production cost, or partial refunds. The decision is based on photographic documentation, phytosanitary inspection reports from both origin and destination, and communication history. We are committed to fair and long-term partnerships.

Upon arrival: (1) Inspect all plants immediately and document any visible damage. (2) Soak bare-root plants in clean water for 4–12 hours to rehydrate the root system. (3) Plant as soon as possible — within 24–48 hours is ideal. (4) If immediate planting is not possible, heel-in the plants temporarily in moist soil or sand in a shaded area. (5) Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent soil moisture for the first 4–6 weeks. Avoid direct sun exposure during the first week. Detailed aftercare instructions are included with every shipment.

For temperate species, the ideal planting window is during the dormant season — late autumn (after leaf fall) through early spring (before bud break). This allows roots to establish before active growth begins. For tropical and subtropical species, planting during the rainy season or cooler months is recommended. We coordinate shipping schedules with your local planting season to maximize establishment success. Contact us to discuss timing for your specific climate zone.

Establishment time varies by species, size, and climate. Generally: bare-root trees take 6–12 months to fully establish a new root system. Container-grown plants establish faster — typically 3–6 months. Balled-and-burlapped specimens may take 6–18 months depending on root ball integrity. During the establishment period, regular watering (especially during dry spells), mulching, and protection from extreme weather are critical for success.

Yes. Every shipment includes a printed aftercare guide covering handling upon arrival, planting techniques (depth, spacing, soil amendments), watering schedules, fertilization recommendations, and common problem identification. We also provide digital copies (PDF) upon request. For large-scale projects, we can offer remote technical consultation on planting design and maintenance planning.

Yes, with proper care. The key factors are: (1) Timing — schedule shipments to arrive during the coolest part of the year in your region. (2) Rehydration — properly soak roots before planting. (3) Soil preparation — ensure well-draining soil with adequate organic matter. (4) Shade and wind protection — provide temporary shade for the first 1–2 weeks. (5) Irrigation — maintain consistent, deep watering. We have successfully supplied bare-root stock to Middle Eastern and African projects by coordinating shipping windows and providing region-specific aftercare guidance.