Tips for Moving Your Plants

Fostering a plant from a seedling can be a true accomplishment so when moving day arrives, plan ahead for how you will move your leafy friends successfully.

First of all, if you are moving across state lines check with the US Department of Agriculture to make sure that your plant can cross state lines. Agricultural states can be very regulative of what they allow in because they fear bugs or disease in their valuable crops. Most states allow house plants to be transported, but require that they were grown indoors and have sterilized potting soil, not soil from outdoors.

If you are using a moving company, be sure that your company will transport plants. Because plants are so finicky, some companies refuse to move them, especially if you are moving 150 miles or more. If your company will not allow plants, you will have to take care of them yourself or make other arrangements.

To help prevent breakage, and to aide against a sore back, transport your leafy friends to a plastic container or pot. It is suggested that you switch your plants to their new unbreakable pots two to three weeks before you move so they can adjust to their new surroundings before a stressful move.

At least a week before you move, take a careful look at your plants to make sure there is no mold, mildew, signs of disease or bugs present. If there is, make sure you take care of the problem before you transport it to your new place.

Before you move, prune larger plants. This will make it easier for travel, but also prevent breakage of long stems. Water your plants as normal. Don't over water them. If weather is warm, over watered plants can grow fungus, and in cold weather, the excess water may freeze.

Pack your plants last. Ideally, store them in boxes where the pots fit snug and there is room on top for the branches and stems to lie naturally. Either leave the top of the box open, or punch holes in the cardboard so the plants can breather. Be conscious of weather. If it is hot, be sure to park in the shade. If you water your plants before departure, they should be ok on a few days journey. If you notice they are dry, give them a little water.