How To Pack House Plants When Moving

Packing house plants when moving can feel like a tricky task, but with the right steps, it’s easier than you think. Did you know that nearly 30% of households own indoor plants, and many people see them as part of their family? Moving plants requires special care to keep them healthy and safe during the move. In this guide, we’ll explain how to pack house plants properly so they arrive in perfect condition and continue to brighten up your new home.

Decide Which Plants to Move

• Look at your collection of plants and decide which ones are worth moving.

• Think about the size of your new space. Will your plants fit there?

• Some plants might be too big or fragile to move easily, so you may need to leave them behind.

• If you’re leaving plants, let the new homeowners know. They might appreciate the greenery.

Prepare House Plants in Advance

1. Repot into Shatterproof Pots:

• About 3 to 4 weeks before your move, switch plants from heavy ceramic or clay pots into lighter, plastic pots.

• Plastic pots are less likely to break and make plants easier to carry.

2. Prune and Clean Plants:

• About a week before moving, trim any dead leaves or branches.

• Pruning helps plants stay compact and reduces stress during the move.

• Don’t prune ferns, cacti, or succulents since they prefer to stay as they are.

3. Check for Pests:

• Inspect plants closely for bugs like spider mites or mealybugs.

• Use insecticidal soap to treat any issues before moving day.

Plants take up space and one van might not be enough. Hire local movers to help you move home with plants.

Packing Indoor Plants

1. Supplies Needed:

• Bubble wrap or newspaper to wrap pots.

• Cardboard boxes for extra protection.

• Packing tape and markers for sealing and labelling.

• Packing peanuts or crumpled paper to keep plants secure.

2. Step-by-Step Packing Guide:

• Wrap pots in bubble wrap or put them in plastic bags to stop soil from spilling.

• Place plants in boxes and fill gaps with paper or peanuts to keep them steady.

• Punch air holes in the boxes for ventilation.

• Label boxes with words like “Fragile” and include notes about which room the plants belong to.

3. Handling Larger Plants:

• Keep large plants in their pots and wrap the base for protection.

• Place them upright in the car and use straps or seatbelts to hold them steady.

Packing Outdoor Plants

1. Uprooting Tips:

• Water plants the day before you dig them up to keep the soil moist.

• Dig widely around the roots to avoid damaging them.

• Wrap the roots in damp cloths and secure them with plastic bags or burlap.

2. Packing Outdoor Plants:

• Use plastic pots or containers filled with soil for temporary storage.

• Tie stems and branches gently to prevent them from breaking.

• Add insulation if it’s cold to keep roots warm.

Transporting Plants Safely

1. Vehicle Setup:

• Put plants in a cool, shaded spot inside your car to protect them from extreme heat or cold.

• Stand tall plants upright in the back seat and use straps to secure them.

• Hang baskets from car grab handles or use makeshift string hangers.

2. Handling Fragile Plants:

• Wrap leafy plants in paper for added protection.

• Place smaller pots in divided boxes to avoid shifting.

• Keep plants hydrated by misting them lightly.

After the Move – Helping Plants Adjust

1. Unpacking Tips:

• Unbox plants as soon as you arrive.

• Remove plastic wraps and give them water and plant food.

• If you switched to plastic pots, wait a week before replanting in decorative pots.

2. Replanting Outdoor Plants:

• Have holes prepared in advance so plants can go straight into the ground.

• Water them well to help with the transition.

3. Observing Indoor Plants:

• Place them in areas with proper light and temperature.

• Watch for signs of stress like drooping leaves and adjust conditions if needed.

Special Considerations for Long-Distance Moves

1. Legal Restrictions:

• Check local laws if you’re crossing state lines or international borders.

• Avoid fines by knowing which plants are allowed.

2. Alternative Options:

• Take cuttings if plants are too large or can’t be moved.

• Rehome plants by giving them to friends or neighbours.

What to Do If Movers Can’t Transport Plants

• Talk to your Leicester removal company about their plant-moving policies.
• Use your own car for delicate or valuable plants.
• Consider hiring specialists for oversized or rare plants.

Conclusion

Moving house plants doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and the right supplies, you can safely move your leafy friends to your new home. Take time to prepare, pack carefully, and give your plants the care they need after the move. If in doubt, speak to your moving company about their plant policies or seek professional help for larger plants.