Our greenery is an integral part of our living spaces, so when we relocate, moving plants should be included in our moving checklist. But transitioning to a new home comes with its set of challenges, whether upgrading or downsizing and when delicate houseplants are part of the move, the stress levels can certainly spike! Manoeuvring through the logistics of relocation while ensuring the safe passage of these green companions might seem as daunting as moving a hefty refrigerator.
But fear not! This guide is here to shed light on clever tips and strategies that make the process surprisingly manageable. You’ll learn everything from how to pack plants for moving or how to move plants when moving house to how do you transport large potted plants. Let’s navigate through this green journey together!
Moving Plants: Getting Your Plants Ready
Moving plants isn’t just a task; it’s a green adventure! Here’s how to ensure your leafy buddies reach their new home happy and healthy:
- Safe Containers: Use sturdy boxes or specialised plant carriers to protect your plants during the move. Covering the soil with a plastic bag keeps things tidy.
- Plan Transportation: Shield your plants from extreme temperatures in transit. Consider moving them in your car for a temperature-controlled ride if it’s too hot or cold.
- TLC for Fragile Plants: Delicate plants might need extra TLC. Look into specific tips for their move; some might need more cushioning or care.
Preparing to Move Plants
You might be tempted to mix indoor and outdoor plants, but hold up! Even for short moves, preventing pests from hitching a ride is vital. Pack indoor and outdoor plants separately to avoid any unwanted travellers.
To get your plants set for a shorter move, gather:
- A magnifying glass
- Plastic pots
- Scissors/shears
- Cardboard boxes/crates
- Packing paper
- Dolly for moving large potted plants
Bug Check
Inspect outdoor plant pots closely for pests using a magnifying glass, especially around the soil. Optionally, treat your plants with neem oil to get rid of bugs by spraying both sides of the leaves and letting them dry for 24 hours before moving.
Protect the Pots
Check your planters. Avoid using pots that could crack. If possible, move plants to durable containers like plastic pots weeks before the move. If not, pad the pots with bubble wrap or cardboard to avoid damage during transit.
Trim and Hydrate
Trim off any dead or wilting leaves with scissors or shears. Consider watering plants on moving days, but don’t overdo it to avoid root rot.
Handle Fragile Plants Gently
Ensure delicate houseplants have their safe space, like a snug box or secure car spot, to prevent them from getting jostled. Use caution; some plants might be too sensitive for relocation.
Packing Other Plants
Place the rest of your plants in open plant moving boxes large enough for the pot. Larger plants might stick out, but ensure they’re secure. Use packing paper to fill gaps and keep them cushioned and safe.
How to Pack Them Safely when Moving Plants
Packing your plants safely for a move is like giving them the VIP treatment! Check out these steps for a secure plan on how to pack plants for moving:
- If you’re in a rush and can’t switch your plants to plastic pots, wrap those fragile pots in bubble wrap while leaving the plants visible.
- Get a solid, roomy cardboard box and line the bottom with a plastic bag to catch water spills from the pots.
- Make sure your plants can breathe by poking air holes into the sides and top of the box.
- Carefully place your plants inside the box. You can group a few if they’re small but don’t overcrowd the box.
- Use crumpled newspaper or packing paper to cushion the box and keep the plants snug. Add paper in between to avoid direct contact if you’ve got multiple pots in one box.
- If your plant isn’t too tall, seal the box. Cover branches and leaves with an old sheet or a giant trash bag for taller ones to prevent them from snagging on other stuff while moving.
- Label the box as fragile with fragile tape or stickers, and don’t forget to mark it with an arrow pointing up. Let the movers know it contains plants, suggesting “top load only” or “do not stack” to avoid pressure on the top.
The goal is to make sure your green buddies stay cosy and safe during the trip, ready to flourish in their new spot!
➜ Related: Packing Tips
Transporting Plants When Moving Home
With these prep steps, your plants should handle the trip well. You won’t have to worry about how to transport large potted plants. Drive carefully with your cargo and maintain a moderate temperature—nothing too hot or cold.
For extra peace of mind, consider hiring professionals for they know how to transport plants in a car well. Their know-how and specialised gear guarantee safe handling for everything they transport.
Moving Plants: Post-Move TLC
Congrats on settling into your new place! Now, focus on your plants:
Giving your plants time to adapt is the first thing to do on how to move plants without killing them; moving can be challenging, especially in a new or colder environment. Try to recreate similar conditions to their old home—keep an eye on heaters, avoid drafty spots, and monitor light and humidity levels.
Once the basics are unpacked, ensure your plants are watered and clean off any dust or potting mix from the move. After a few days, check on your plants closely—look for changes and assess their condition.
Keep an eye on plants that needed repotting before; they might need more watering due to root growth. Don’t rush into repotting immediately; let them settle for a month or two.
For struggling plants, consider propagation—try rooting them in water and repotting the stems to boost their growth. With some patience and care, your plants will soon feel at home and thrive in their new space!
Special Considerations for Fragile Plants
Taking care of delicate plants during a move needs extra TLC! Here are vital tips for their safe handling:
- Handle with Care: Keep them snug, not too tight, to avoid breakage from any movement.
- Shield the Greenery: Wrap delicate leaves or stems in a soft cloth or tissue for protection.
- Padding: Add cushioning around pots to prevent shifting or potential damage.
- Keep a Steady Climate: Protect sensitive plants from extreme temperatures.
- Quick Travel: Shorter trips are better to minimise stress. If you can, move them in your car for better control over their environment.
- Post-Move Adjustment: Give fragile plants more time to adjust before changing their care routine, offering a little extra care.
- Watch and Adjust: Watch for signs of stress post-move and adapt their care accordingly based on how they react to the new environment.
Remember, delicate plants might need more patience and attention, but they’ll thrive in their new spot with proper handling!
Local Regulations and International Moves
Regarding local and international moves, complying with regulations is crucial on how to move plants when moving house. Familiarise yourself with plant transportation guidelines to avoid surprises or issues during your move locally.
Internationally, different countries have strict rules on plant importation due to ecological concerns. Research the destination country’s regulations beforehand, often including permits, inspections, or leaving some plants to comply with quarantine laws.
If you’re planning on moving plants interstate in Australia, each state may have its own plant quarantine regulations for interstate moves in Australia to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Ignoring these rules could lead to plant confiscation and hefty fines. Various state departments handle these regulations, so contacting the relevant authorities for guidance is advisable.
In Australia, each state has its own plant quarantine rules to prevent pests and diseases from spreading. Ignoring these could lead to fines or losing your plants. Contact the relevant state departments for guidance.
Here are some quarantine regulators in Australia to reach out to if you’ve got plant-moving queries:
- Queensland – Department of Agriculture & Fisheries
- South Australia – Department of Primary Industries and Regions
- Western Australia – Department of Industries and Regional Development
- Tasmania – Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water, and Environment
- Northern Territory – Department of Primary Industries and Resources
- New South Wales – NSW Department of Primary Industries
- Victoria – Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport, and Resources
Leaving it to The Professionals
Remember that moving plants with care isn’t just about relocating green companions—it’s about ensuring their safety and nurturing their growth in a new space. Moving plants can seem challenging due to their delicate nature. Many folks leave plants behind during moves, seeing it as a hassle or unnecessary.
But for plant lovers unwilling to part ways, pros can help! These plant removalists have the gear, vehicles, and expertise for safe plant moving. Talking to these plant movers about their services ensures your beloved plants reach their new home safe and sound.
Throughout this journey, consider the invaluable assistance of Moving Mates. With their expertise and specialised handling, Moving Mates can streamline the process, providing the care and attention your plants deserve. By entrusting this plant moving company with the delicate task of plant relocation, you’re ensuring a smoother transition for your leafy friends, allowing them to thrive in their new home. Embrace the support of Moving Mates and watch your cherished plants flourish in their new environment! Get a quote now!
