Houseplants are fast becoming an integral feature of our homes, not just as decoration but as living companions that many believe improve mental health, wellbeing, air quality and productivity. So when it comes to moving home, you want to make sure your leafy friends will not merely survive the trip, but continue to thrive in their new environment. 

Plants can be one of most difficult aspects of a house removal, so if you feel like you kill your plants every time you move, read on to learn how to pack them for moving house, and how to avoid common pitfalls such as shock, stress and damage, supported by our friendly team of removals specialists.

Pre-Packing Plant Care

Evaluate Your Plant Collection
Now you’re moving, it’s a great time to assess the health, size and type of your plants. Determine which ones are worth moving, including plants that might need some extra TLC in the leadup to the move, and consider which plants might fare better being left behind or gifted to friends and family. Once you’ve assessed your plant collection, talk to us and we can supply a free removals quote based on your needs and requirements.

Prune and Repot
A few weeks before the move, prune your plants to remove dead or excessive growth. Your plants will thank you for this anyway, but trimming excess weight will only make them lighter to carry! If possible, it’s a good idea to repot indoor plants into lightweight, unbreakable containers which will again make them easier to transport and reduce the chances of damage. Again, do this a few weeks before you move to allow your plants time to adjust.

Water Properly
Water your plants a few days before the move, but avoid overwatering. Soggy soil can lead to root rot during transit, as well as adding unnecessary extra weight to your load. If you have outdoor plants, water them instead a day before the move - making sure you don’t fall foul to garden-grabbing, taking into consideration that garden plants are often part of the contract of sale.

Packing and Wrapping Your Plants

Label Your Plants
Much like you would label your cardboard moving boxes, label your plants. Include their name and specific care instructions, which is especially important for sensitive or high-maintenance plants.

Protect Delicate Plants
For fragile or sensitive plants, carefully wrap them in paper or cloth to prevent breakage or damage to leaves and stems. For bigger plants, you might want to consider wrapping them in horticultural fleece.

Secure Containers
Use sturdy boxes or crates to transport your indoor plants, making sure they are well-secured to prevent shifting during the move. If you’re packing multiple plants to a box, we suggest adding extra cushioning between them and lining the base of the box with a towel to soak up any leaks from watering.

During the Move

Transport with Care
With Hanlon Bros, you can guarantee any item you move will be handled with care. In the case of moving house plants, our team of removals specialists will make sure to place your plants in a secure, well-ventilated area of the moving van, without placing any heavy objects on top.

Minimise Temperature Shock
Keep your plants protected from extreme temperature changes during the move. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, especially if they are not accustomed to it.

Once You’re Moved In

Unpack Promptly
Upon arrival at your new home, unpack your plants as soon as possible and provide them with fresh air and light.

Water and Care
Much like ourselves, it’s common for plants to feel stress during a house move. Once you’re unpacked, keep a close eye on your plants for signs of stress or transplant shock, which can include leaf shedding, rolling or discolouration. It’s really important during this time to maintain the right amount of moisture in the soil, and in some cases prune the plant right back so it can focus its energy on recovering. 

Most importantly, give your plants time to adjust to their new environment, and wait a little while before making any further changes to their routines or location in your new house.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition for your houseplants during your house move. Taking care of your plants before, during and after the move will help them thrive in your new home.
 

Contact Us

At Hanlon Bros we are experts in all aspects of moving house, so contact us today to make sure your plants are moved properly.