(Updated Sept., 2024)
Moving can be stressful. From packing up your kitchen to organizing your bedroom and office supplies, there’s a lot to think about. But one thing people often forget about is their house plants. Whether you have a few small potted plants on your windowsill or a garden of outdoor plants, figuring out how to move plants across country can be a challenge.
Don’t worry, though—we’re here to help! We’ve got the tips you need to move your beloved greenery safely. Before you start packing your plants for moving, it’s important to realize that not all house plants can survive a long-distance move. House plants are delicate and often require regular care, sunlight, and water.
During a cross-country trip, your plants will be stuck in a moving truck for days, exposed to a range of conditions. Even worse, some states have restrictions on the types of plants you can bring across state lines due to concerns from the Department of Agriculture.
If you’re thinking about shipping plants or taking them across state lines, make sure to research what is allowed. Certain states, like California and Florida, are strict about what you can and can’t bring in to prevent invasive species or pests from disrupting local ecosystems. It’s always a good idea to check in with local gardening groups to see what plants are safe to bring along or even ask friends and neighbors if they would like to take the plants.
Taking Your Plants with You? Here’s What to Do First
If you’re set on bringing your plants along, you’ll need to plan ahead. Some house plants are hardy and can handle the stress of travel, while others may not be as lucky. If you’re unsure how to pack plants for moving, follow these steps:
Check the USDA list of approved plants for transport between states. This will ensure you’re following the rules and regulations set by the Department of Agriculture and help avoid any fines. Make sure to check your plants for any pests–this is especially important if you’re crossing state lines. You don’t want to accidentally bring pests to your new home or cause an alien invasion that will damage other plants at your destination.
Make sure plants are healthy and don’t have any pests: healthy plants are more likely to survive the move. Be sure to remove any dead leaves or bugs that could harm your plants. And stop fertilizing a few weeks before the move to reduce their growth rate and make them less susceptible to stress.
Gather plastic pots, plastic bags, and other materials needed for packing. Use plastic pots instead of clay pots for the move. They’re lighter and less likely to break. Plastic bags can help keep moisture in, but be sure to poke holes for airflow and make sure they still have oxygen to survive the trip.
Make sure plants are packed securely so they don’t tip during the move. Place plants at the bottom of the box and add bubble wrap or packing paper around the base of the pot to prevent tipping.
If you’re moving trees, shrubs, or larger plants, a little trimming before the move can help minimize the stress on the plant.
How to Move Outdoor Plants
Outdoor plants present a different set of challenges. Whether you’re planning to move a full garden or just want to take a few cuttings, it’s essential to handle them carefully. If you’re digging up an outdoor plant, make sure you get as much of the root system as possible. Wrap the roots in paper towels and keep them moist for the trip.
Another option is to take cuttings from your outdoor plants rather than moving the whole thing. This can be a good way to bring your favorite plants to your new home without completely removing them from the garden for the new residents. Taking cuttings also reduces the risk of damage during the move, making it easier to replant once you arrive.
Make sure the moving truck is at a comfortable temperature. Too much heat or cold can damage your plants during a long trip. Also, avoid placing them directly in the path of any vents blowing hot or cold air. Plants survive best in moderate, stable temperatures, so try to create an environment that’s as comfortable as possible for them.
Wondering How to Move Plants Across Country? First Question is Should You
As much as you love your plants, it’s important to think long and hard about whether they should make the move with you. Bigger live plants can be easily damaged during transport, and the stress of the trip may be too much for some species. If you’re moving delicate flowers or house plants, you’ll need to do your homework to ensure they survive the journey.
There are too many variables in plant life and plant needs to fit into one short blog post like this one, so you’ll definitely have to do your homework before moving day. Hopefully, what we’ve written here will give you a good head start on moving your live plants across the country.
When all is said and done, it may be better to just wait until you get to your new home so that you can buy new house plants and garden plants that can thrive in your new surroundings. Just be sure to entrust the care of your old plants to someone who will take care of them and provide for their needs as much as you did.
If you’re considering taking your plants with you on a cross-country move, then it’s obvious that your house plants have a special place in your life. Ask Smooth Move People about the best ways to get them transported. We’re here to help!
