How to Move a Plant

Move your plant without killing it –

Plants are great for new homes. They can provide some much-needed life to empty gardens and blank walls. And fortunately, if you’re moving, you can probably bring the ones your already have.

Unfortunately, though, moving a plants is not like moving a couch. Plants are living things that require serious care. Here are the steps you’ll want to follow to ensure your plants survive on moving day:

Moving a Plant Checklist

There are three basic things that you need to do when moving a plant: (1) research, (2) pot, and (3) prioritize.

• Research your plant – Run a quick Internet search or read up on the type of plant for any special concerns when transporting it.  Also, if you are moving to a different state, you’ll need to check out that state’s restrictions — some consider foreign plants an invasive species.
• Pot them – Put the plants in a plastic/non-breakable pot. Add mulch or dirt where necessary. You can also use a wet paper towel to cover the leaves of the plant.
• Prune them – Prune all your larger plants, with the exception of succulents and ferns. Pruning will make for easier packing and produce new growth.
• Box them – Pack your plants in a sturdy cardboard box with a lid and air holes. To anchor them securely in the box, use packing peanuts or wadded newspaper.
• Use your own vehicle – Always transport your plants in your own car (or the truck cab), where you can control temperature and air flow. Moving trucks can be stifling hot in the summer and freezing cold in the winter.
• Prioritize your plants – Upon arriving, unpack your plants and get them situated or replanted as soon as possible.