If you’re a plant person , you know they are not just another thing to pack. After taking care of them for a long time, watering them and watching them grow, they become part of the home. And of course, if you’re moving you want to see them in your new place too.
So if the plants are coming with you, let’s make sure they make the move safely. Here’s how to get them ready and take care of them during the trip.
First, Talk to Your Movers About the Plants
If you’re using movers, ask them first if they can take your plants. Some moving companies don’t, especially for long-distance moves, so this is something you’ll want to know ahead of time.
And if you’re crossing state lines, check the rules for your new state too. Depending on where you’re going, there may be restrictions on certain plants or soil.
Moving with Houseplants
What You’ll Need
- Sturdy cardboard boxes
- Packing paper or newspaper
- Bubble wrap for breakable pots
- Plastic bags for keeping loose soil inside the pots
- Scissors
- Plant stakes or supports for taller plants
When Should You Water Your Plants?
Watering before moving day has its trick. What you want is for the soil to have some moisture, but not be soaking wet. Too much water will make the pots heavier and can make a mess so try to do your last watering a few days before, that way the extra water has time to drain.
Of course, every plant is different, and we know some are more dramatic than others. You know your plants better than anyone, so follow their normal watering needs. Just keep in mind that on moving day, the soil shouldn’t be soaking wet.
Should You Repot Before Moving?
Not necessarily. If your plant is doing well in its current pot, you don’t need to repot it just because you’re moving. But take a look at the pot itself. If it’s very heavy or something that could easily break during the move, switching to a lighter plastic pot may make things easier.
If you decide to repot, don’t leave it for moving day. Give the plant some time before the move, and use a clean pot with good drainage and fresh potting mix. You can pack the decorative pot separately and use it again once you’re in the new home.
Packing the Smaller Plants
Smaller plants shouldn’t give you much trouble. Grab a sturdy box and place a few plants inside, then add some packing paper or newspaper between the pots so they don’t move around. Keep the paper around the pots so you don’t squish the leaves.
If you have a pot that can break, wrap it first. You can also put a plastic bag around the pot and close it around the base of the plant. That way, if it tips a little, the soil stays inside instead of all over the box.
Keep the top of the box open so the leaves have enough room and don’t get crushed.
What About the Taller Plants?
Taller plants can be a little trickier. If the leaves spread out a lot, loosely wrap some packing paper around the plant to keep everything together and give the leaves a little protection.
For a bigger plant, give it its own box and add some packing paper around the pot so it stays in place. If the plant needs a little extra support, you can also use a plant stake and loosely tie the stem to it.
Keep an Eye on the Temperature
Now, let’s talk about temperature because your plants will definitely notice the change. A car or moving truck can get very hot or very cold pretty quickly, and that’s not where you want your plants sitting for hours.
If you’re taking them in your car, keep the temperature comfortable and don’t put them right in front of the AC or heater. For a longer trip, think about the overnight stops too. If it’s very hot or cold outside, don’t leave the plants in the car overnight.
And That’s It, You Made It!
Once you get to the new home, take the plants out of the boxes and find a good spot for them. They may look a little different after the trip, so give them some time.
And remember, you don’t have to pack everything by yourself. Eco Movers can help with packing too, so ask us what we can help you with. Get a free quote and let us help make moving day easier.
