This is a question we frequently get from customers. Most moving companies will not move houseplants due to their fragile nature. However, here are some tips for moving them yourself… Please note: Because I am personally lacking any sort of green thumb, I have based the tips below on a post on About.com, written by Diane Schmidt.
- If you’re moving from state to state, sometimes your plants aren’t allowed to move with you. So, before you take plants with you, find out what species are allowed into your new state or country, before you attempt to smuggle them in unknowingly.
- Most movers will not cover damage to plants. Plants are too fragile and are very likely to suffer from the move. Some moving companies will not even allow plans on their trucks. Ask before you move if the company has any rules on plants.
- One option is to move the plants yourself. Get some sturdy boxes, line them with plastic and place your plant inside. Stuff bubble wrap or foam cushioning between the pot and the box to make sure your plant doesn’t shift or tip during the move. Put them in the back seat of your car, with taller plants positioned on the floor. This will give you some comfort knowing you can keep an eye on them. Just make sure if you have to spend a night in a motel, that you check the weather. Cold temperatures can damage fragile plants, so to be safe, move them indoors with you.
- If you’ve planned your move well, you should have time to re-pot your plants into plastic containers. Just remember that your plants need time to adjust and recuperate from re-potting, so do this a few weeks in advance of the move.
- Tall plants should be bagged or wrapped in plastic. Just make sure you poke some holes in the plastic to let your plants breathe.
- If you want to take some of your outdoor plants with you, but don’t want to deplete the new owner’s garden, take some cuttings. Purchase some floral tubes, fill them with water, then cap them. This should ensure that your cuttings arrive ready for your new home and garden.
- When your plants arrive at your new home, make sure you remove the plastic immediately, take them out of their boxes and give them some water and plant food. If you had transplanted them into plastic containers and you want to put them back into their original pots, make sure you wait a week before doing this. Moving plants is very hard on them. You don’t want to over-stress them by changing their location, then re-potting them. This could result in stunted growth or even death.
- Observe any garden plants that you plant at your new home. Difference in soil, climate and air quality will have an effect on their health. Keep a watch on their progress and call in some local help if you’re having problems.
Ready to plan your move? Call BoxCart Moving & Storage at (703) 263-3300 or email us at info@boxcart.com.
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just great. this should be added to movingtips on movingtaxi.com and other moving tip publication. great work boxcart.com. gentlebox would make a great name for you.