As an interior plant stylist, I consider my plants to be not only my business but also my passion. They are my green companions that bring life and beauty to my home and workspace. But as much as I love them, the time has come for me, my husband, and our two cats to move to a new home. And as excited as I am about the new space, I am also faced with the daunting task of moving all of my plants safely and securely.
If you're a plant parent like me, you know that moving your plants can be a stressful time. But fear not, because, in this blog post, I will share some tips and tricks that I have learned from my own experience (moving three times in a matter of two years), as well as from other plant experts. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, these tips will help you to move your plants without damaging them and keep them happy and healthy in their new home.
1. Plan Ahead
Moving your plants requires planning and preparation. You don't want to pack them in a hurry and risk damaging them. Therefore, start planning at least a few weeks before your moving date. First, assess your plants' health and decide which ones are worth moving. Yes, you read that right. Depending on the exact circumstances of your move, you might have to make the difficult decision not to take some of your plants with you, for their own well-being. It is important to consider the plants’ size, age, and whether they can survive the move.
2. Preparing Plants For A Move
Once you've decided which plants you can and want to move, it's time to prepare them for this huge transition. Trim any dead or dying leaves and prune them if necessary. Give them some extra TLC, like wiping their leaves with a damp cloth. Also, check for any pests or diseases and treat them accordingly.
3. Timing Is Everything
Timing is important when it comes to moving your plants. If at all possible, avoid moving them during extreme temperatures (especially cold temperatures), especially if you're moving long distances. It is best to wait until the weather is mild and stable to avoid stressing your plants.
If you have no other choice than to move during the heart of winter, it is worth considering gifting your plants to friends or family, or selling them, as sad as that might seem.
Think of it this way: If being told that moving your beloved pet across the country might be terminal, you would most probably (hopefully) decide not to take that chance at all. The same thought should be given to plants, as they are living creatures after all.
4. Pack Your Plants Properly
- When it comes to packing your plants, you need to make sure they're secure and well-protected. Here's how to go about it:
- Tie the foliage together to decrease the chances of stem breakage.
- Choose the appropriate containers: Use sturdy, plastic pots that won't break easily during transport.
- Use packing materials: Cover your plants' soil with plastic or paper to prevent spilling, and wrap their pots in bubble wrap or towels to protect them from scratches.
- Secure the plants: Use packing tape to secure the pots to prevent them from moving during transport.
- Label the boxes: Mark each box clearly with the plant's name and its ideal growing conditions, such as light and water requirements. This will aid in knowing in which rooms to place certain plants upon arrival in your new home.
5. Transport Your Plants Safely
Once your plants are packed and ready to go, it's time to transport them safely. Here are some tips to ensure your plants arrive at their new home in good shape:
- Keep them hydrated: Water your plants before the move, but not too much as excess moisture can make the soil heavy. Mist them lightly during the move if possible.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Keep your plants away from direct sunlight during the move. They can be damaged by extreme heat or cold.
- Keep the temperature stable: If you're moving long distances, use a climate-controlled vehicle or truck to keep the temperature stable.
6. Unpack And Acclimatize Your Plants
Once you arrive at your new home, unpack your plants and give them time to acclimate to their new environment. Don't rush to put them in direct sunlight or change their watering schedule. Give them a few days to adjust before you start taking care of them as usual.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Overwatering your plants before the move: Overwatering your plants can make the soil heavy, and your plants can tip over during transport.
- Packing your plants too tightly: Packing your plants too tightly can damage their leaves and stems during transport.
- Leaving your plants in the car for too long: Leaving your plants in a hot or cold car for too long can damage them.
- Forgetting to label your boxes: Forgetting to label your boxes can make it difficult to identify your plants and their ideal growing conditions.
- Relying on moving companies to handle your plants with care: If possible, rather move your plants yourself, where you can keep a close eye on them.
Moving your plants can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and a little bit of love, you can ensure that your green companions will make the journey safely to their new home.
So, don't let the stress of moving deter you from taking your beloved plants with you! Follow the tips and tricks I've shared in this blog post, and your plants will thank you for it. With a little bit of planning, some TLC, and a bit of creativity, you can transform any space into a lush and vibrant oasis.
Happy moving, and happy planting!
