Tips for transporting and protecting plants during a move
Are you moving to a new home and would like to bring your houseplants or outdoor plants with you? Are you hesitant to move your plants because you’re afraid that they won’t be able to withstand the change of residence? Whether you’re moving within the same neighborhood, to a city not far from your current residence or even to another province, you’ll be happy to know that you can safely transport your houseplants and even some plants from your yard, as long as you take the proper precautions.
You can rest assured that, by being well prepared and knowing how to proceed, you can move your plants securely and efficiently. Here are some tips for successfully transporting your plants during your move.
Before moving your plants
The same way you start packing your boxes several weeks before moving day, you’ll also want to start readying your plants in advance. Things you can do to prepare your plants include the following:
- Trim the branches of the largest plants one or more weeks before moving day. By doing so, you’ll reduce their volume and prevent the stems from breaking during transport.
- A few days before moving, water your plants one last time, adding some fertilizer, if possible. This way, any water left in the pots will have time to evaporate so it won’t spill in the boxes.
- On moving day, pack up your plants by wrapping the largest ones in frost protection covers or brown paper to protect them from drafts and secure them during transport. To prevent the pots from moving around, use boxes in which they fit snugly; otherwise, you can fill in any gaps with empty egg cartons, for example. Dump out any water left in the saucer at the bottom of the pot. To secure and protect the plant, fold each flap of the box around the trunk (without forcing) and secure it with tape.
- In the case of small plants, you can put several of them in the same box, separating them with newspaper or bubble wrap to limit movement and reduce the risk of the foliage and stems becoming entangled. Close the box and poke several holes in it to allow the air to circulate.
- In the case of outdoor plants, you can dig them up at the last moment, taking care to maintain a sufficiently large root ball covered in soil. You can then put them in pots or plastic bags, making sure to keep the soil moist. You can also take cuttings of your favorite plants so you can replant them in your new yard. To do this, simply cut a few pieces the day before your move and wrap them in a moist cotton cloth.
- Consider loading your plants on the moving truck last so that you can take them out quickly once you reach your destination.
After moving your plants
- Take your plants out of the moving truck first and put them in a spot with plenty of light but not a lot of foot traffic, as you won’t want to risk knocking them over.
- Replant your outdoor plants as soon as possible and water them generously to facilitate their recuperation.
- Put your houseplants in what will be their final locations so they can gradually get used to their new environment.
- Keep a close eye on your plants for the next few weeks in order to detect any possible signs of weakness.
Would you like to move your plants safely and securely? Call on the experts at Martineau Movers. They’ll be happy to transport your plants—along with all your other belongings—safely, securely, quickly and efficiently.
