Advice for Moving Plants

If you’ve dedicated time, energy, and money to cultivating houseplants, it’s only natural to want to bring them with you when you move to a new home. In most cases, where there’s a will, there’s a way. Here are four tips to help you when moving plants:

Beware of state regulations. If you’re crossing state lines, you’ll need to check restrictions on moving plants across. Some states only require a certificate of inspection showing the plant isn’t diseased or bringing any unwanted moths or other creatures along for the ride. Others, like California, Arizona, and Florida, are much stricter. To find out specific rules for the state where you’re headed, call that state’s natural resources department.
Keep plants at the right temperature. Many plants are temperamental – they need to be kept in a temperature-controlled space or they’ll die. Most can’t survive in temps below 30 degrees Fahrenheit or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Some movers have no problems transporting plants, but when you’re traveling a long distance, that might change. Check with your movers about their policy on moving plants. If your movers won’t move the plants, bring them in your car if they’ll fit.
Keep your plants moist. Most plants can survive up to 10 days without water, but you should always check your particular plant species. Then calculate the length of your travel – adding on days at the backend in case delivery of your things takes a bit longer – and decide whether your plants can make the trip safely sans water.
Go plastic. It’s way too easy for ceramic or clay pots to break in transit, so it’s a good idea to transfer your plants to plastic pots. Beware that repotting could be dangerous to your plant’s health, and that you should take this step 2-3 weeks before the move to give it time to get used to its new pot.

If all of this sounds like too much work, then consider giving your plants to a friend or selling them. For more advice on moving plants, contact Allied Van Lines, a company with more than 85 years of experience helping customers achieve safe, smooth moves.