Moving Guide: Packing Plants for a Move

Packing for a move can be a time consuming and daunting process. You have lots of different things to pack and if you have house plants you'll also need to pack them for the big move. Plants should be packed a certain way and the preparation leading up to the move is important to ensure survival of the plants. You don't have to give away your potted plants, with these steps you can take them to your new home or office.

Use the shovel to carefully remove plants in clay pots. Replant each plant into a similar sized plastic pot or plastic container as clay pots can break during moving. Make sure the plants are securely planted, gently press the potting soil down to firm it up. Do this three weeks before the move.

Use your thumb and forefinger to gently pinch back new sprouts or stem growth. Do not pull, tug, or tear the sprouts off, pinching will slow the growth of the new sprouts during moving. Do this two weeks before the move.

Inspect all the plants for bugs and insects a week before moving. Remove any visible bugs. Use a little bit of insecticide as needed to kill off any insects that may be under leafs or in the soil.

Water all of the plants two days before the move. There is no need to over water the plants; simply water them as you normally do.

Pack smaller plants into small boxes. Use old sheets and tissue paper to pad the sides and minimize sliding around in the box. Gently wrap larger plants in tissue paper or sheets to prevent branch damage. Place larger plants in larger boxes. Tape up the boxes carefully. Do this the night before moving.

Use a small knife or scissors tip to poke air holes in the top and sides of the box.

Pack the boxes into a vehicle right side up.

Mark the boxes to indicate right side up and fragile.

Unpack the plants promptly after moving and water them as needed. Place plants that require ample sunlight should be placed in sun soon after packing.

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