Preparing & Moving With House Plants

Relocation is always difficult whether it is a commercial move or a residential move. For either, there are many things to plan for including which plants you plan to take, and which you will plant to leave behind. Unlike other items, plants must be moved with care or they may not survive the trip.

The main challenge of moving a plant is not the space, but rather the light exposure, varied temperature, and possible water shortage during the journey. However, proper planning and preparation can help you ensure your plants make it to your final destination healthy and whole. Augusta Movers has an easy to follow guide that will help you plan your move along with your plants.

A Couple Weeks Before You Move

Your plants will need a proper trim a few weeks before you plan to travel. You can consult a local nursery or even an arborist to find out the right procedure. Although most plants tend to be repotted in a new location, you can start the process in advance to reduce the length of the shock phase well ahead of your move.

Next, you should transfer your plants into plastic pots instead of glass, clay, or ceramic planters to prevent accidents. Pruning in advance helps to free up space while also improving the health of your plant ahead of the move. Make sure that your plants require trimming before breaking out the scissors. Succulents and cactuses for example are exempt from pruning.

A Week Before You Move

Once you get to just around a week before your move, it’s important to inspect your plants. While you are inspecting your plants, you should be looking for pests, diseases, plant failures, or any other issues. If you notice that a plant is not responding well, chances are you will be better off leaving it behind.

Two Days Before Your Move

Water your plants liberally two days before the date of your move. This will give their roots a chance to absorb moisture while also reducing the chance of soil spillage. Line the boxes you plan to transport your plants in with plastic bags to prevent the surrounding cartons from being damaged. Also, make sure to cut holes in the lids and sides of the box for ventilation. Labeling the boxes as “plants” and “very fragile” is also important.

When loading, it is also a good idea to place the plant boxes with other containers of the same size. Leave some space between the lids and the boxes for ventilation.

Moving Day

Make sure there is space between the boxes once all of your plants are loaded. In the summer, place damp newspaper on top of the boxes to help keep your plants from getting dried out. Double-check that nothing has been packed on top of the plant boxes as well. Once you arrive at your new location, open the plant boxes as soon as possible, but leave them in the box and out of direct sunlight. It is normal for plants to experience a moderate amount of shock that results in wilting, but they should bounce back after a few days.

How We Can Help

Moving is always difficult, but with the tips from Augusta Movers, you and your plants will be able to make the journey safely. For more information or to get a quote for our services, give us a call at (647)783-8730.

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