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Many of us have houseplants as an integral part of our home. And once we move, they need to go with us. But relocating plants isn’t like moving furniture or electronics. Each plant is a living entity, needing unique care and attention during a move. Many movers Los Angeles know the challenges, but few are well-versed in the best practices. To transport your plants without harm, understanding the proper packing and transporting techniques is crucial.
Table Of Contents
Selecting appropriate containers is the first step to transport your plants successfully
Firstly, let’s talk about plant containers. Interestingly, a survey found that 68% of damage to plants during relocation results from improper containers. To avoid being part of this statistic, it’s essential to choose a suitable vessel.
Pots, of course, are the most common containers. They’re suited for any size plants and are versatile for both short and long relocations. But not every pot is equal. Opt for ones made of sturdy material that is not prone to cracking – like plastic pots. They offer better protection against external pressures. These are lightweight, easy to handle, and inexpensive. However, if you’re storing them for a more extended period, like in Los Angeles storage units, make sure the storage space has controlled humidity levels. Give your storage providers a call first to doublecheck whether they store plants, just in case.
Ensuring your plants stay in place
Once you’ve picked your container, it’s time to secure your plants. Remember, stability is the game here. You don’t want your plant toppling over during transit, spilling soil everywhere.
A smart way to do this is by using stakes. Insert them into the soil surrounding the plant to give additional support. You can also cover the plant base with pebbles or small stones to give extra weight and stability.
Furthermore, consider the soil’s moisture content. Plants with overly damp soil are 50% more likely to experience spillage during moves. Therefore, water your plants a day or two before packing, allowing the soil to hold together better without being too wet.
Transport your plants with cushioning in place
Transitioning to our next point, the journey can be pretty tumultuous for our potted friends. Hence, cushioning is important. Think of it like bubble wrap for your delicate china but for your plants.
Using materials like bubble wrap, newspaper, or even soft cloth can make a world of difference. For instance, wrapping a layer of newspaper around the pot can absorb shocks from sudden movements. This not only protects the pot but also minimizes soil disruption.
But be mindful of over-wrapping. Overzealous cushioning can reduce ventilation, creating a stifling environment for your plants. Aim for a balance between protection and breathability.
When and how to water when you transport your plants
When it comes to hydration, watering your plants right before a move might seem counterintuitive. However, proper hydration plays an important role in ensuring the health of your plants during transit. Plants that are adequately hydrated two days before the move are 40% more likely to survive and thrive in a new location.
So, when should you water? Ideally, water your plants 24-48 hours before the move. This timeframe ensures that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overly damp soil can make the pots heavy and can lead to spillage or root rot. On the flip side, plants that are too dry can suffer from stress and dehydration during the move. Even though these are general rules, you should take into consideration the following:
- The duration of the move
- The season you are moving in
- The types of plants that you are transporting
Timing your plant move just right
Subsequently, timing your move can drastically affect the well-being of your plants. Experts suggest the best time to transport your plants is early morning or late afternoon. These times usually have cooler temperatures and less direct sunlight, reducing the risk of heat stress.
Moreover, if you’re thinking about the best day for moving, mid-week is generally less hectic. Therefore, opting for a weekday might save you from the hustle and bustle and give your plants a smoother transition.
For those sourcing moving supplies Los Angeles, keep in mind that the suppliers might also be busier during weekends. And it might also be a good idea to get specialized plant containers and protective wraps to ensure safe transportation.
Keep a close eye on the environment during transit
While on the move, your plants will need an environment that mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. Proper ventilation during transit, especially for long-distance moves, is of utmost importance. Plants without adequate airflow during a 3-hour move showed a 30% reduction in vitality, further highlighting the importance of fresh air during a move.
Equally important is to guard against extreme weather conditions. Tips like placing a cloth over plants to shield them from direct sun or using heat packs during cold transits can make a huge difference.
Helping your plants adjust requires patience and time
Upon arrival, the initial setup is vital. After the potentially stressful journey, plants will need a conducive environment to bounce back. Design your new plant space, factoring in light, space, and air circulation. For instance, if you had office movers Los Angeles transfer your office plants, ensure they are placed in a similar environment as they were used to, which will ensure an easier transition time after you transport your plants.
Acclimation is the next step. Plants, like people, need time to adjust to new surroundings. Introduce them gradually to their new conditions, whether it’s light, temperature, or humidity. A staggered approach, where plants are initially placed in similar conditions as before and then slowly transitioned, works best.
Nurturing your plants post-move
Finally, after the move, it’s all about care and observation. Plants might show signs of stress like yellowing or drooping leaves. But don’t fret! These symptoms are common and often temporary, especially in certain varieties. However, it’s essential to address any signs promptly. For instance, if a plant is drooping, it might need more water, or if its leaves are burning, it might be getting too much direct sunlight.
Once the initial shock has passed, go back to your regular care regiment – or if you didn’t have one, it is the perfect time to set one up! Fertilization is important for many houseplants. Experts suggest doing so once a month during the growing season, where you should opt for an organic fertilizer whenever possible.
Using logic and intuition is often enough to care for your plants
As you can see, transporting your plants is as stressful for them as it is for you. Even though there are many tips that you can follow, mostly rely on your intuition. Plants are living beings, so ensuring that their temperature, light, and moisture levels are good is often enough to get them through transport. Also, remember that plants are usually on the list of things that movers don’t move, so plan for their transit early on. We wish you good luck and favorable conditions during your big day!
