Love Your Plants? 5 Tips When Moving To A New House

Are you an avid gardener with a plethora of indoor and outdoor plants? Then moving to a new house means taking your beloved plants — or leaving them behind. Can you move plants to a new home? Should you? And what alternatives might you explore? Here are some tips for any plant lover.

1. Know What Must Be Left

If you're selling the property, be clear about which outdoor plants stay and which do not. Things can get dicey if the new property owners expect all the plants in the ground when they view the home to be there when they move in. You may even label planted greenery that isn't included in the sale. 

2. Check With the Movers

In general, moving companies don't move plants in their trucks. For short-distance moves, they may accept some houseplants or other greenery on a case-by-case basis. 

For long-distance trips, though, the matter is usually quite different. The problem is that not only are plants fragile on long drives, but the plants often have a low chance of survival. Be clear about what you can and cannot expect them to move.

3. Prioritize Your Plants

You can opt to take plants with you on your road trip to the new home, but recognize that you may not be able to take everything. 

Hard as it may be, prioritize your plants for the move. Which have the highest (and lowest) chance of surviving the stress? For which do you have a sentimental attachment? Would you rather take one large one or two smaller ones? These are personal decisions but make them early so you aren't in a rush. 

4. Gift Your Plants

Can't take all your plants? Find some of them new homes by gifting them to others. Your well-loved houseplants are a great parting gift for friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. You'll know that they are appreciated and they aren't a burden during the move. Gift plants early to get them off your list. 

5. Take Some Cuttings

Finally, if you really can't take a particular plant with you, try taking a cutting. Cuttings allow you to bring mature or fragile plants to the new house — but in a compact, less fragile way. This is an excellent compromise for low-priority indoor plants and for those you've cultivated outside and which must stay behind. 

Where to Start

Before you start making too many plans for your plants — whether to leave them or take them — start by discussing it with qualified moving companies in your area. With their expertise and assistance, you'll find the right spot for everything as you head to your new home.

Reach out to moving companies near you for more information.

Share