How to Move House with Plants: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• •Plan Early: Start planning your move at least 6-8 weeks in advance to secure the best dates and rates.
• •Compare Quotes: Always compare at least 3 local removal quotes to ensure you get a fair market price.
• •Declutter: Reducing the volume of your belongings is the most effective way to lower your moving costs.

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Moving house is stressful enough for humans, but for your leafy companions, it can be a shock to the system. Changes in light, temperature, and location can cause houseplants to drop leaves or wilt. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to prepare, pack, and transport your plants safely to your new UK home.

Preparing Your Plants for the Move

Preparation is key to ensuring your plants survive the journey. Start preparing your plants a few weeks before your moving date.

• Prune and trim: Three weeks before moving, pinch back newer growth and remove dead leaves. This makes plants more compact and easier to transport.
• Repot if necessary: If you need to repot a plant, do it at least a month before the move to give it time to settle. Consider moving plants from heavy ceramic pots to lightweight plastic ones for the journey.
• Watering schedule: Water your plants normally, but ensure the last watering is 2-3 days before the move. You want the soil to be moist but not soaking wet, which makes pots heavy and prone to leaking.

How to Pack Plants for Moving

Proper packing prevents broken stems and spilled soil. If you're unsure how many boxes you'll need for your entire move, use our packing box calculator.

For small to medium plants: Place them in sturdy cardboard boxes. Leave the top of the box open so they can breathe. Stuff the gaps between the pots with crushed packing paper or newspaper so they cannot slide around or tip over during transit.

For tall plants: Wrap the foliage gently in tissue paper or a light cotton sheet to protect the leaves from tearing and to prevent branches from snapping. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can cause the plant to overheat and suffocate.

Transporting Your Plants

As mentioned, your car is the best place for your plants. The temperature is controlled, and you can keep an eye on them.

• Load plants last so they are the first things you take out at the new house.
• Avoid putting plants in the boot if it gets too hot or cold. The backseat or floorboards are usually best.
• If you are traveling a long distance, park in the shade during rest stops in summer, or keep the car warm in winter.

If you are moving internationally or across borders, be aware that there are strict regulations regarding the transport of plants and soil. Always check the official GOV.UK guidelines before attempting to move plants abroad.

Settling Plants into Your New Home

Once you arrive, bring your plants inside immediately. Don't leave them in the car overnight.

Place them in their new locations, trying to match the light conditions they were used to in your old home. Do not water them immediately unless the soil is bone dry; give them a day to acclimate to the new environment first.

It is normal for plants to drop a few leaves after a move due to shock. Give them time, maintain a consistent watering schedule, and they will bounce back. For more advice on settling into your new home, check out our ultimate moving checklist.

For further official guidance on moving house in the UK, we recommend consulting the following trusted organisations:

• Gov.uk: Tell DVLA you've changed address
• Gov.uk: Stamp Duty Land Tax Calculator
• British Association of Removers (BAR)
• Citizens Advice: Problems with removal companies

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