How do you move house plants from one state to another?

If you have read our “Do Not Ship” list, you may have noticed that we can’t transport your house plants on our moving trailers. Not only are there state regulations against it, it’s also a bad idea. Because moving trailers get no sunlight, they lack fresh air (very little air circulation), and depending on what season you’re moving, could experience extreme temperatures. In other words, it’s very unlikely your plants would survive the trip. So, how do you move house plants from one state to another? Here are some guidelines for moving your plants.

Take them in your own vehicle. `   
This is the best way to ensure a temperature-controlled environment. But before you do, call your state Department of Agriculture to find out if the species of plant/tree you’re moving is allowed there, and if there are any special regulations (sometimes there are soil regulations).

Getting plants ready to move

• Water them 2-3 days before moving. You’ll want the soil to be moist, but not too wet. If they don’t like getting too dry, when you pack them wet some paper towels and place them on top of the soil to keep it from drying out.
• Many states require plants to be potted in sterilized soil, meaning potting soil, not dirt from outside. In preparation for your move, purchase some potting soil (just make sure it’s the proper mix for your plants), and replant them in this soil.
• Since you don’t want to move your plants in their ceramic containers, repot them in plastic containers 2-3 weeks before moving – this will give them some time to adjust.
• Because most plants don’t like a change in container size, choose plastic containers that are similar in size to their previous pots. Right before loading, put the plastic containers is a box and make sure it fits snugly in the container. Pack paper around it to make sure it doesn’t tip over. Then poke air holes in the container so it can breathe. Remember, your plants are living and we want to keep it that way!
• Load your plants in your car, but NOT in the trunk.  The trunk doesn’t get as much air, and it can get very hot or very cold. If the temperatures are extreme, you may want to bring your plants into your hotel room with you as you travel.  If you are traveling for more than 3 days, you might want to open the boxes and carefully allow them to get a little sunlight.

Other tips. Don’t attempt to move outdoor plants. If you want to take a cutting from an outdoor plant, use a floral tube from a florist and keep it wrapped in moist towels and plant it when you arrive.  Also, be sure you check with the USDA about the regulations in the state you are moving through and moving to.  Arizona, California and Florida especially have specific regulations about transporting plants, even if you are just driving through.  Also, learn if an area you are moving to has Gypsy Moth regulations. Check out YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com for more information.