Moving House Plants Can Be Tricky
Posted on 12/07/2016
How To Move With Your Plants
Moving house is one of those experiences that people with green thumb dread. Since plants are pretty hard to transport, many growers are left wondering what to do with their greenery. Flowers and greens can’t go without light, water and air for a long time. Big trips and cross-country moves can be traumatic for your plants. That is why most removal companies won’t allow loading your greenery in their vehicle. Plus, the pots and planters may topple over, damaging or staining your goods. If you are not ready to part with your leafy friends, you may need to take them with you in the car or find alternative transportation.
The move can be tricky, because plants are sensitive to any fluctuations in their environment. You need to consider a number of important factors such as how you are moving your greens and how to prepare them. We’ve compiled a few tips to help you prep your greenery and to increase their chances of survival during the move.
Modes of Transport
The best way to move your plants is in your own vehicle. This will provide you with full control over the environment such as ventilation, watering and light. Unless you keep them in the trunk, your greenery will probably arrive in good condition. If you are planning to travel by plane, check if the airline company accepts plants as airfreight. Keep in mind that greenery shipped by air doesn’t receive any special care and may be exposed to sever temperature extremes. Obtain the required inspection certificate and ensure that your plants are well packed.
Preparing Your Plants
Plants should be among the last items to pack, no sooner than a day before the move. If you are moving across town, simply place your greenery in an open box. Add newspaper to cushion the sides of the pot. For taller plants you may need to put sphagnum moss into the top part of the pot. Drape or wrap your greenery carefully in plastic or tissue paper. In this way you can tip the plant on its side without making a mess. If you are travelling in the winter, cover the plants with newspaper before loading them. Avoid exposing your plants to extreme cold because it will harm them.
Travelling with Plants
Moving long distance with plants can be very challenging, especially if you are planning to make overnight stops. If you still want to do it, you should treat your greenery as you would your pets. Don’t let your plants get too cold or too hot. Leave the windows of your car slightly open, if you leave them in the vehicle for more than an hour. Water the plants regularly.
Check the Laws
There are certain restrictions to shipping plants to different countries. If you are moving to a different country, check the state’s regulations. Your houseplants may need to be inspected for pests and diseases and certified.
Movers’ Advice
Consult with your movers early in the moving process to inquire whether they take house plants. The man and van company may help you find an alternative way to move your greenery.
Shipping plants is risky and expensive. There is no guarantee that you will get your plants to the destination in decent condition. If you are moving to a distant location, choose three of your favourite greens and take them with you. The rest you can sell or give away. Once you arrive at your new home, you can purchase new plants.
