Major Moves

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-626 -- More Projects »
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For tall plants that won't fit in the back seat of your car, pack sphagnum moss into the top of each pot, then wrap the pot with plastic and secure it with string or tape. Then you can tip the plant on its side in the car without losing all the potting mix and making a mess.
You think moving is hard? Plants hate it too. If you're planning a move, master gardener Paul James offers some tips to ensure that your houseplants arrive in their new house in good condition.

  • If you're moving across town, simply pack your plants in open boxes. Be sure to cushion the sides of the pots with newspaper. Then, put the plants in the car, and head to your new house.
  • For taller plants that won't fit into the back seat of your car, pack sphagnum moss into the top of each pot, then wrap the pot with plastic and tie it with string or tape. Then you can tip the plant on its side in the car without losing all the potting mix and making a mess.
  • If you're moving in the middle of winter and it's cold outside, wrap your plants with newspaper top to bottom before loading them, because even a few seconds of exposure to extreme temperatures will injure tropical plants. If your garage is connected to your house, load your plants while the car is in the garage.
  • Traveling long distances with plants in a car is tricky, and James is hesitant about recommending it--especially if you're making several overnight stops along the way. If you insist on doing it, treat your plants as you would your pet: Don't let them get too hot or too cold. If you leave them in the car for more than an hour, leave the windows in the car open slightly, and make sure they get enough water .
  • You can arrange to have plants shipped by land or air, but it's expensive and there are usually no guarantees. This is what James suggests: When moving long distances, pick out three of your favorite plants and move them however you choose, and then have a plant sale and use the money to buy new plants for your new house.

Also in this Episode
Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-626
•Easing Chores
•Growing Grapes
•Stepping Out
•Major Moves