Most movers will not take your plants in the moving van, as there is little chance they will survive. There are no temperature controls in a moving van; therefore temperature changes may be extreme. In addition, the plants will not be watered, or receive any sunlight, from the time they leave until the time they arrive. Should a mover allow your plants to be loaded with the rest of your belongings – it will be at your own risk. The following tips may be helpful in preparing your plants for transport.

• Plants in clay or breakable containers should either be replanted into plastic containers or the root balls of the plant should be wrapped tightly with damp newspaper and/or sphagnum moss.

• Water your plants the evening before or early on the day the plants are to be transported. Keep in mind, if you are moving during the winter months, water in the root system may freeze during transport. During warm weather, plants with an abundance of water in the root systems may develop fungus.

• To assist with temperature fluctuations during transport, wrapping layers of dry newspaper around the root ball or around the plastic pots and the plant stem is useful in insulating each plant. The colder the temperature, the more insulation needed.

• Prune larger plants to ensure leaves are not damaged during transportation. This will also promote new growth to the plant. Note it is not advisable to prune cacti or succulents.

• Air holes should be pre-punched into the cartons in which the plants will be packed.

• Make sure you have a carton large enough to protect the leaves and tops of the plants. Secure the individual plants in the carton by placing wadded packing paper around the pots between each plant.

• When the plants reach your destination, they should immediately be unpacked, re-potted, watered and fertilized.

Some cities, especially in the US or overseas, may have strict restrictions on plants and plant material. Check with the local Department of Agriculture for any restrictions or requirements.