Moving with Houseplants

Growing Joy with Plants is the top Home & Garden podcast on Apple Podcasts about houseplants, gardening, and nature-inspired wellness. Plant killer turned Happy Plant Lady (me) Maria Failla , interviews experts on how to successfully care for plants and cultivate joy and calm through doing so.?

Each week this newsletter will share nature-inspired insights, tips, and actionable steps drawn from the conversations.?

Still a plant killer? No worries! We’ve all been there - all plant killers, plant enthusiasts, and plant impartial are welcome. All you need to start is your curiosity. I’ve got your back for the rest.?

Here’s why moving with houseplants helps you grow joy, cultivate calm, weed anxiety…

Today's episode is so great because I’m joined by my dear plant friend and place aficionado, the one and only Becca of Becca de la Plants.

You might know her from her YouTube, Instagram (@delaplants), or maybe even from her book, ‘Houseplants for Beginners.’ I’m so excited to have her here because we have both MOVED a lot in the last year. I’ve made smaller moves but moved three times, while Becca has made a cross-country move, which is like a two-day drive. That must have been STRESSFUL!!

But anyway, it’s so different to move living things, so we have come up with a lot of tips for how to move with houseplants.

Moving is tough. Packing boxes, saying goodbye to familiar surroundings, and navigating new neighborhoods can be a real drag. But you know what's even more challenging? Moving with houseplants! Here’s a moving with plants guide to save you a lot of stress.

Pre-Move Prep

‘Cause only the strong survive! Decide who makes the cut.

Before you start packing, assess your plant collection. Decide which plants will make the move and which ones will stay behind. If a plant is already struggling, it might be best to leave it behind or give it away to a friend or local community center.

Shower them, treat for pests, and water them well before the journey (but don’t drown them).

A few days before the move, give your plants a good watering. This helps ensure they’re hydrated but not waterlogged, which can cause root rot during transport. Also, shower them to remove dust and pests. Treating them for pests will help prevent any infestations from spreading during the move.

Use sturdy boxes, crates, or newspapers to tuck your plants in safely.

When it comes to packing, use sturdy boxes or crates. Line the bottom with newspaper to create a cushion. For taller plants, consider using wardrobe boxes that can keep them upright and protected. Fill the gaps with packing material to prevent movement.

Moving Day Shenanigans

If possible, give your plants their own ride a day before or after the chaos.

On moving day, if you can, transport your plants separately from the rest of your belongings. This minimizes the risk of damage and gives you more control over their environment. If you’re moving locally, consider taking your plants a day before or after the big move.

Keep them comfy with temperature control (and don’t hang them!).

Plants are sensitive to temperature changes, so make sure they’re kept in a climate-controlled environment. Avoid hanging plants in the moving vehicle as they can fall and get damaged. Instead, place them securely on a flat surface.

Remember, they're VIPs—so load them last and unload them first.

When packing the moving vehicle, load your plants last and unload them first. This reduces their time in the vehicle and ensures they’re one of the first things to be settled into your new home.

Your plants might need a minute to adjust, so give them some grace.

Once you arrive at your new home, unpack your plants as soon as possible. They might need some time to adjust to the new environment, so be patient. Find the best spots for them based on their light and temperature needs.

Find their new sunny spot (or shady corner) and shower them with love.

Your plants will need to acclimate to their new surroundings. Some might prefer a sunny spot, while others might thrive in a shady corner. Monitor their health and adjust their placement as needed.

Plants Are Resilient and So Are You

Be kind to yourself. Moving is stressful for both you and your plants.

Moving is a big change for everyone involved, including your plants. Give yourself and your plants some grace during this transition period. Allow time for your plants to settle in and for you to adjust to your new home.

What's your craziest plant-moving story? We want the details!!

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