Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Feel free to reach out! 613-514-0525, info@theurbanbotanist.ca
What platform do you host virtual workshops on?
We host our virtual workshop sessions on any virtual meeting platform you or your team is most comfortable with using. The most commonly used platforms are Zoom and Microsoft Teams. We ask that whichever platform you decide to use, that you provide us with the meeting link. We do not provide the meeting link for your event.
How do we book a virtual workshop?
You can book a virtual workshop with us by filling out our intake form on our Virtual Workshops Page. A customer service representative will respond to intake forms within 24 hours. Please note: We require a 3-week minimum lead time on all workshops.
How long is a workshop?
All virtual workshops are 60 minutes long. The building and learning session lasts 45 minutes, with a 15 minute discussion and question period towards the end of the workshop. Workshop time slots are from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm EST.
What is provided in the DIY kits?
Absolutely all necessary tools and supplies are included in our workshop DIY kits. What is included in your workshop varies from kit to kit. View the contents of our DIY kits here.
Is there a minimum or maximum number of participants?
For most of our private virtual DIY events, there is a minimum requirement of 20 participants. Our Plant Guru workshop has no minimum participant requirement! There is no maximum number of participants for any of our workshops.
What if I don’t have 20 participants, can I still do a workshop?
Absolutely! You can purchase the DIY kits directly from our website. Each kit will come with a guided instruction card and pre-recorded video link. If you are purchasing 10 kits or more, we offer a discount! Email us for more information.
Where do you ship?
We ship globally! Shipping lead times anywhere outside Canada and the US vary. Please let us know if you require shipping outside of North America ahead of time so we can ensure everyone has their materials on time for your event!
Do you do private events?
Yes, we do! From birthday parties, anniversaries, or other gatherings, we would love to grow with you! Unfortunately, we are not offering private events for children at this time. Book an adult event HERE. Email us to learn more about our private events! Hello@theurbanbotanist.ca.
Do you offer in person events?
Occasionally we host exclusive in-person workshops. Please check our website to see if we are offering an in-person event near you!
I have a specific topic in mind. Can I request a workshop?
Absolutely! We are happy to adapt our existing workshops around a specific plant or nature related topic! Please reach out to us to chat more about your idea and how we can make your event come to life!
What payment methods do you take for your workshops?
We accept all major credit cards! Alternative payment options may be available upon request.
What do I do when my kit arrives?
When your kit arrives, you should take out your plant and give it access to air and sunlight until your event. The rest of the materials can remain in the box until the workshop!
My plants arrived dead. What do I do?
Unfortunately, living plants may struggle when being shipped. After you receive and open your package, if your plant isn’t happy, please email us and we can assist you further to make sure you are prepared for your workshop! Please see more details in our virtual workshop contract.
How do I care for my terrarium?
Terrariums are very easy to care for! If you have a closed or sealed terrarium, it will not require any watering. Open terrariums will need to be watered approximately once a month. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. When you do water your terrarium, don’t skimp out on the water! Make sure that you are thoroughly watering the plants. Your workshop will go over these details more specifically! For more information on plant care, check out our Plant Care 101 video!
Are the plants provided toxic to pets?
The plants that we use in our workshops are seasonal succulents that are not toxic to pets.
I have a specific plant care question, what is the best way to get help?
Please email info@theurbanbotanist.ca with your plant care questions/concerns. It helps us if you provide photos of the plant in question and give us as much detail as you can so we can assist you to the best of our ability! Some important details to include are: how often/how much you water, the light the plant is in, any repotting or relocation changes, etc. The more information, the better!
What is biophilic design?
Biophilic design extends from the term, biophilia, which is a fundamental human attraction and need for contact with nature. As innate biophilic beings, biophilic design is the mimicking of nature in our interior spaces, which we spend up to 90% of our time. Biophilic design is incorporated into homes and businesses because of its cognitive, psychological, and physiological benefits.
The Urban Botanist specializes in vertical green preserved moss walls. Our dynamic designs are hand crafted using high-quality, Scandinavian moss. All the moss we use is real, but no longer living. It is sustainably grown and harvested. Check out our catalogue for more information on the species we use and designs we have produced!
What are the benefits of a moss wall?
Some of the MANY benefits of preserved moss walls are:
- Filter air toxins
- Zero maintenance
- Lasts 8-10 years
- 100% natural/organic
- Sustainably grown and harvested
- Acoustic insulation
- Will never decay, die, mold, or fade
- Improves mood, mental health, and cognitive function
- Decreases stress levels
- Helps boost creativity and productivity
I am interested in preserved moss walls for a commercial space. Where can I get more information?
Please fill out the intake form HERE and we will follow up with you!
I want to incorporate preserved moss into my home. What are my options?
The Urban Botanist also offer moss frames for smaller spaces looking to incorporate biophilic design! Find more information about our moss frames HERE. We have a team of talented designers that would be thrilled to create a piece that is best suited for your space and your biophilic goals!
I want to host a workshop, but I have some questions about accessibility for my team members.
The Urban Botanist is continually looking to better adapt our services to suit all participant abilities. If you have any questions, requests, or feedback, please reach out to us! We would love to discuss how we can accommodate your entire team to make the most out of your workshop experience!
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes! Gift cards can be purchased online and mailed to you or the recipient directly. Scheduled pick up is also available.
Want a personal touch for a gift? Leave us a note at checkout!
Where are you located? Can I come to your shop?
The Urban Botanist is predominately an online business. We run and operate out of Ottawa, but do not have an official storefront open to the public. We do offer pickup at 877b Boyd Avenue for online purchases by appointment only. Please email admin@theurbanbotanist.ca or call us at 613-514-0525 for more information or to schedule an appointment with us!