Deciding what to take with us and what to leave behind can be challenging when we move. One item many seem to forget when they begin the planning process of moving is their plants. Plants can offer significant health benefits and enhance the decor to your apartment or home, but what should we do with them when we change living spaces? With these tips, you’ll have no trouble safely transporting your houseplants during your big move.
Prioritize Indoor Plants
We know you can’t live without some outdoor plants, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered there, too. Prioritize your indoor plants first for less hassle. If you have extra space in the moving van, grab a potted plant before digging a bush out of the backyard!
Take plenty of safety precautions with your plants—use bubble wrap, transfer them to plastic pots, or move them on a separate trip. It may also be helpful to use recycled plastic and paper grocery bags to reduce expenses while keeping your plants safe.
You’ll want to begin preparations for indoor plants a few weeks before moving. This could include daily watering, pruning dead leaves or weeds, and double-checking that your plants suit their new environment. Some agricultural areas restrict what plants you can and cannot have. Do your research beforehand to avoid any abrupt parting of ways.
Move Outdoor Plants
If you decide to bring along a few of your outdoor plants, there are additional steps you should take to keep them healthy. Timing is essential when removing outdoor plants from the soil. Aim for the cooler temperatures throughout the day; if it’s colder, wait until the afternoon; if you’re moving in the summer, start digging in the evening. Water the soil generously the day before transportation for easier digging and to lessen the risk of damaging the roots of the plants.
Outdoor plants tend to struggle with moves while they’re in season, so this may be something to consider when choosing when to move or what outdoor plants you want to bring along.
Pack (and Unpack) Methodically
Make sure plants are easy to reach and get enough air. Without these resources, your plants may not survive the move. Provide ample room to avoid damage, and generously use bubble wrap or other packing materials.
Label boxes to indicate they contain plants to movers or yourself. We recommend adding “Fragile” or “Live Plant” outside your boxes for extra attention and safety.
When unpacking, take plants and other essentials out of their boxes first. Then, give your plants water, fresh air, and an appropriate light source. This will help your plants adjust to their new environment and feel right at home—just like you!
Now that you’re all settled into your new place, you can begin setting up. Over the first few weeks, monitor your indoor and outdoor plants for issues. With these tips, your plants will make the transitions and look fantastic in your new home!
