How to Move Plants Interstate Without Damaging Them

Moving interstate is a major undertaking, especially when you have a home filled with plants that you have carefully grown and looked after over the years. From indoor plants and herbs to larger outdoor pots, plants require different care from ordinary household belongings.

If you are planning on moving plants interstate, preparation is essential. Plants can be sensitive to temperature changes, lack of water, movement and sudden changes in their environment.

Here is how you can prepare your plants for a safer and more organised relocation.

Start Preparing Your Plants Before Moving Day

Do not wait until moving day to think about your plants.

Begin preparing them several days before the move. Check each plant for damaged leaves, pests or unhealthy growth. Removing dead leaves and damaged branches can make plants easier to transport.

Large plants may also need to be pruned carefully so that they are easier to handle and less likely to catch against doorways or other furniture.

Decide Which Plants You Are Taking

Before transporting every plant, consider which ones are practical to move.

Large outdoor plants in heavy ceramic pots may be difficult to transport compared with smaller indoor plants.

You may want to separate your plants into:

• Small indoor plants
• Medium-sized plants
• Large plants
• Potted herbs
• Outdoor plants
• Fragile or delicate plants

This makes it easier to plan how they should be handled and transported.

Protect the Pots

Plant pots can crack or break during transportation if they are not protected properly.

For ceramic or terracotta pots, use suitable protective materials around the outside of the pot. Place smaller plants securely so that they cannot tip over during transportation.

Avoid placing heavy furniture or boxes directly on top of plants.

Prepare Plants for Transportation

Plants should be stable before they are moved.

For smaller plants, secure the pot so that the soil remains in place. Larger plants may require additional protection around branches and leaves.

Avoid wrapping plants so tightly that there is no airflow. Delicate leaves and branches can be damaged when compressed for long periods.

Think About the Weather

Long-distance relocation means plants may experience different temperatures during transportation.

Extreme heat and cold can affect plants significantly. If you are travelling a long distance, discuss the transportation requirements with your removalist before moving day.

The route, season, travel duration and type of plant can all affect how the plant should be prepared.

Check Interstate Plant Restrictions

One important step that is often overlooked is checking whether there are restrictions on moving particular plants, soil or plant material between Australian states and territories.

Biosecurity requirements can vary depending on the origin and destination of your move.

Before transporting plants interstate, check the current requirements that apply to your specific route.

Keep Plants Upright

Whenever possible, plants should remain upright during transportation.

An overturned plant can result in:

• Spilled soil
• Broken stems
• Damaged leaves
• Cracked pots
• Root disturbance

Secure plants carefully and avoid placing heavy items against them.

Give Plants Time to Adjust

Once you arrive at your new home, avoid immediately placing every plant in exactly the same conditions as before.

Temperature, sunlight and humidity may be different at your new property.

Allow plants to settle gradually and monitor them during the first few days.

Moving House With Plants Doesn't Have to Be Stressful

Plants are more than household decorations for many families. They can represent years of care, memories and personal effort.

With proper preparation and careful handling, you can make the process of relocating your plants much easier.

If you are planning a long-distance relocation, speak with your removalist in advance about any plants or other items requiring special handling.

Planning an interstate move? Contact Movers Near You on 1800 517 324 or email sales@moversnearyou.com.au to discuss your moving requirements.