posted 2nd January 2025
How to Best Handle Your House Plants When Moving: Tips from Shepherd and White
Moving house can be a daunting task, and while most people focus on the logistics of packing boxes and settling into a new home, there’s one important aspect that often gets overlooked—your house plants. For plant owners, these green companions are not just décor but part of the family. At Shepherd and White, we understand how much your plants mean to you, and as experts in property services, we’re here to offer advice on how to handle your plants during the moving process.
1. Start Preparing Your Plants Early
House plants are sensitive to changes in their environment, so it’s important to start preparing them well before moving day. A few weeks ahead of time, begin to reduce the watering schedule to ensure the plants are in the best condition for travel. This will help prevent overwatering and soil spillage during transit. If your plants are large, begin pruning back excessive growth to make them easier to transport and to reduce stress during the move.
2. Pack Your Plants Carefully
When it comes to packing your plants for the move, treat them like fragile cargo. The goal is to keep them safe and secure during the journey. For smaller plants, you can place them in sturdy boxes. For larger plants, carefully wrap the pot with newspaper or packing paper to avoid damage. Make sure the plant is upright in the box and has room to breathe—avoid packing them too tightly to allow airflow. You can also use bubble wrap for extra protection around the pot or any delicate branches.
If you’re moving plants across long distances, consider securing special plant shipping boxes, which are designed to protect plants during transport. Make sure to label the boxes clearly as fragile and “live plants” so the movers handle them with care.
3. Consider the Temperature and Light During the Move
Plants can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. During the move, avoid exposing your plants to extreme heat or cold. For example, don’t leave plants in a hot car or place them in an area where they could freeze. If you’re traveling a long distance, plan to transport your plants in the passenger compartment of your car, where the temperature is more stable, rather than in the trunk.
Additionally, plants need light to thrive. If you’re moving locally and the move will only take a few hours, you can keep your plants in a place with natural light until you’re ready to transport them. For longer journeys, try to place your plants in a space where they won’t be in total darkness for too long.
4. Unpack Your Plants as Soon as You Arrive
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the first thing you should do is unpack your plants. Place them in an area with good natural light and stable temperatures. Allow them to acclimate to their new environment gradually—don’t move them around too much in the first few days. If the new home is brighter or darker than your previous one, give your plants some time to adjust.
If you’re planting them outdoors, wait until after the move to make sure the climate and soil conditions are right for them. Consider re-potting or refreshing the soil as necessary, especially if the plant has been in the same pot for a while.
5. Keep an Eye on Plant Health
After your move, keep a close eye on your plants for signs of stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or drooping. It’s common for plants to experience some shock when adjusting to a new environment, but with proper care, they should bounce back. Ensure they receive the right amount of light, water, and temperature for their specific needs, and remove any damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
6. Consider Plant Care Services for Long-Distance Moves
If you're moving a significant distance, such as relocating to a new city or country, and have many valuable plants, consider hiring a professional plant moving service. These experts are experienced in packing and transporting plants, ensuring they receive the proper care during the journey.
Shepherd and White: Helping You Move Home, Plants Included!
At Shepherd and White, we know that moving to a new home is more than just about the property itself. It’s about making sure that everything you value, including your beloved plants, is safely and securely settled into your new space. Whether you’re relocating within Ashby, Coalville, or the Charnwood villages, we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible.
If you’re looking for a home with the space and environment that will allow your plants to flourish, let Shepherd and White help you find the perfect property. Our one-to-one estate agency service is here to provide personalized support for your home-buying journey, plants and all!
Ready for Your Next Move? Contact Shepherd and White Today
If you’re preparing to move to Ashby, Coalville, or the Charnwood villages, and need expert advice on your next home, contact Shepherd and White today. We can help you find a home that’s perfect for both you and your plants, ensuring you have a space where you and your green companions can thrive.
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-move-plants?
