How to Move Your House Plants
If you have a green thumb, you most likely have house plants. If you have house plants and have to move, chances are you will want them to move with you. So, what are the best ways to move your plants? How can you ensure that they will arrive healthy at their new home? Get Your Move On pays particular attention to house plants because it can be hard enough to keep certain plants alive in this arid environment – the last thing you want to do is neglect or mistreat your plants during the move. Here are some suggestions for moving your plants and keeping them healthy.
Moving Long Distance
Plants need to be moved in a temperature-controlled environment. Your car is the best option. The lack of fresh air and extreme temperatures could damage your plants or kill them. Moving companies cannot ship perishable items except if they are going less than 150 miles or delivery is within a 24 hour period.
State Regulations
Check state regulations. Some states require a Gypsy Moth Inspection Certificate. There are also regulations concerning the kind of potting soil that plants can be grown in. Some states such as California, Arizona and Florida have the strictest policies on bringing plants into their states.
Getting Ready for the Move
Here is a timetable that you should follow to get your plants ready for their move:
Three weeks before moving
If your plants are in breakable pots, repot them to unbreakable pots
Two weeks before moving
Prune your larger plants
One week before moving
Check your plants for insects and parasites.
Two days before moving
Water your plants. Be careful not to over-water them. Over- watering in the winter could cause them to freeze, while over-watering in the warmer months could cause fungus growth.
Moving day
Pack your plants the night before or in the morning. Use old sheets to protect branches and put the plants in boxes. Make sure they are secure and won’t slide around. You can use paper around the bases of the plants to hold them in place. Punch some air holes in the boxes so the plants can breathe. Finally, make sure the boxes are placed in an upright position.
On the road with you
Pack your plants as close as possible to the time you are planning on leaving. Do not put any plants in the trunk of your car. The lack of fresh air and varying temps could kill the plants. Depending on how long a trip it is to your new location, you will probably have to water your plants and give them some light.
Your New Home
Unpack your plants as soon as possible. Try to remove them by carrying from the bottom so that you don’t break any branches or leaves. Final thoughts: Some of your plants might require some special attention after the move. You can check out a local nursery or do some additional research to see what kind of special care your plant(s) may require after the move so that they can recover and thrive in their new environment.