First, take in mind that before considering how to organize the transportation of your plants, you have the option to give them to friends, neighbors, donate, or sell at a yard sale. But, when you have dedicated years to take care of your houseplants, you cannot just leave them. Here are some tips on the most important aspects you have to take in mind when moving with plants.
Moving with Plants – Things to Consider
If you are moving to another state, then before even considering how to organize the transition of your plants to your new home, check out the state regulation for importing plants. Mind that rules vary form state to state so it is essential to contact the local authorities for details. Check the United States Department of Agriculture website for more information on permits, clearance and regulations. Also have in mind that user fees might apply.
The best time for moving with plants is fall. Late fall through winter is the best time, as plants and trees are generally dormant during this period. When spring comes and new growth occurs, the tree and plants should be placed to take root in their new home.
If possible, consider taking only cuttings of your precious plants. Cuttings are easy to handle and can survive for several days if wrapped in a wet paper towel. You can gift the plants to a friend that will take care of them the same way you did it.
Before the moving day:
- Transplant your plants in plastic containers to avoid breakage. Ceramic pots are not only heavy to carry, but they are easy to get damaged. So a few days before the move, put your plants in a plastic containers.
- Trim the shrubs and trees. This will sustain the plants’ health and ease your move by keeping branches from sticking out unwelcoming and even from getting snapped.
- The day before the moving day, water your plants enough so they can be fresh for the next few days.
Environmental concerns
Temperature is the most crucial factor to consider when moving plants. Mind that most plants won’t make it if the temperatures drops below 35 degrees F or increase above 95-100 degrees F for a long period of time. Plants left in the dark for a long time might suffer too, the same goes if there is too much exposure to direct sunlight (especially for some plants).
Moving with plants – DIY
If you travel to your new location by car, it will be much easier for you to maintain the needed conditions for your plants to keep them fresh all the time.
Moving with plants – professional services
When contacting movers to ask for quotes, explain thoroughly what and how many plants do you want to move. To what extent are your precious ‘green friends’ sensitive to their environment. Mind that some professional moving companies don’t move houseplants at all. Most movers won’t cover any damage regarding your plants. Usually, moving companies agree to move plants under certain rules – neither storage is required, nor watering. A moving company might move your plants if the delivery is completed within 24 hours from the time of loading.
When looking through your cross country movers estimate, if there is something that bothers you, make it clear before booking your movers. Remember, work only with licensed with the Department of Transportation carriers. Also, it is a good idea to read some reviews on moving companies to find out more about the experience of people who have already used the services of the particular movers.
Author Bio: Manuella Irwin is a relocation professional, one of the esteemed contributors to MyMovingReviews.com blog.
