Moving Plants: How To Move Your Garden To A New Home

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Moving Plants: How To Move Your Garden To A New Home

Apr 09, 2024

Are you relocating to a new home in Perth, Western Australia? The process can be overwhelming, as you need to pack your possessions, transfer utilities, arrange a moving truck, and much more. In the middle of this, you may forget about transporting your much-loved and delicate plants.

It can be challenging to pack and move a whole garden, as most plants could die during transit due to poor handling or transplant shock. Just like delicate artwork or glass furniture, plants also need special care and attention.

Fret not! Below are some useful tips for moving your garden to a new home in the best condition. Make sure you determine the best time to move your plants to let them survive the fluctuating temperature during the process.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Plan for Relocating Plants In Advance

This step will help you determine how to execute the relocation process without damaging your plants. Make sure you consider which plants will survive and thrive in the new environment.

You can say goodbye to extremely delicate plants and pack the rest using the best tips and tricks. Ensure you arrange the necessary garden pots, packing supplies and boxes before starting the process. This will ensure the utmost safety of your garden plants.

It is good to hire the best Removalists Perth for a hassle-free plant moving journey. However, many movers won’t cover damage to plants during relocation. So, do proper research and ask the necessary questions before making the final decision.

Tip: Consider the Sunlight at your new abode when de-cluttering your garden plants.

2. Prepare Your Plants: Prune & Trim

woman preparing her plants for moving

It is good to prune and trim your large plants to ensure healthy growth and easy transportation. Trimming dead leaves and branches will help your plants acclimate to the new environment. You can avoid this step on Succulents, cacti and ferns plants because they are happy without pruning and trimming.

Cutting long branches can help you transport plants without a hint of stress. However, it is good to choose the right moving van if you have large plants and other bulky items.

3. Check For Pest Infestation

Believe it or not! Pests are the real enemy of any lush-green plants. So, before repotting them, thoroughly inspect for pests, such as spider mites and mealybugs.

It is good to apply insecticidal soap to treat pest infestation. Do this before repotting and packing your houseplants.

4. Repot Plants into Lightweight Plastic Pots

Clay pots are heavy and fragile. So, transferring large plants from breakable pots into lightweight plastic containers is good. It will make it easy to pack and move your plants in moving boxes. You can ask your friends to help you during this process. Here is a step-by-step guide to repotting your plants:

  • Turn your plan sideways and gently remove it from the current pot. Tap the bottom until the plant easily slides out.
  • Loosen the roots gently with your hands.
  • Add new potting mix into plastic pots
  • Set your plant on top of the fresh layer in the pot and add more soil.

For root-bound plants, take the cuttings and secure them into larger pots with new soil so that you don’t feel guilty about leaving your rooted plants behind.

Tip: Water your plants at least two days before the final move. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause wilting and mould in roots.

5. Wrap Delicate Plants in Bubble Wrap

Professional Removalists Perth recommends using bubble wrap to pack prickly plants like succulents and cacti. This will protect other plants and delicate household items in the vehicle because succulents have sharp edges that can leave scratches behind.

However, do not use multiple layers of plastic wrap, as it can suffocate your plants during the relocation process.

6. Pack Potted Plants in Boxes

Next, place potted plants in boxes and crates and fill gaps using packing peanuts and paper. This will prevent your delicate plants from shifting or breaking while in transit.

Do not close the lid to allow airflow and sunlight in the box. However, if you are moving during heavy rain or other extreme conditions, close the lid and poke some holes in the sides of the boxes. This will promote airflow and keep your plants lively.

7. Place Tall Plants in the Backseat of Your Car

Once you have completed the packing process, it’s time for safe and sound relocation. You can transport large plants in your car. Fold your seats and create more space in the backseat.

Place a plastic bag around the base of your plant and add a drip tray under it to prevent spillage.

Tip: Be careful when lifting heavy objects, especially large potted plants.

8. Avoid Extreme Temperature Fluctuations

When transporting your beloved plants in summer or winter, avoid extreme temperatures. It is advised to adjust your vehicle’s temperature to keep your plants comfortable during relocation.

9. Hire Professionals For Plant Relocation

It is good to hire expert removalists Perth who specialise in moving plants and have the proper equipment and strategies to protect them during the process.

Professionals can also help you relocate other household belongings and save you a lot of time and energy.

Tip: If you are moving across the state, make sure you check the Western Australian Organisms List, as not all plant species are allowed entry.

10. Allow Your Plants to Adjust After the Move

Once you arrive at a new home, remove the boxes and plastic immediately and give them the required water and food. Keep all your pants in a shaded area to let them slowly adjust to the new temperature and climate.

For plastic-potted plants, put them back into their original pots after a week and let them breathe and thrive in your new home.

Useful Guide to Moving Plants to a New Home

tips for moving house plants

Wrapping Up

Nothing is more challenging than moving leafy and beautiful plants to a new home. Proper planning, pruning, repotting, sufficient water, and adequate packing keep all types of plants safe, secure, and healthy while in transit. So, follow the tips shared above in this article and set up a garden with old plants in your new home.