Plants are an important part of many homes and gardens — offering aesthetic appeal, clean air, and a personal sense of wellbeing. Whether you’re nurturing houseplants in your living room or tending to a well-established garden, moving home presents a challenge: how do you relocate your plants safely and ensure they thrive in your new surroundings?
This guide covers everything you need to know about moving house with plants in the UK, including how to prepare, pack, transport, and re-establish both indoor and outdoor plants during a house move.
Deciding Which Plants to Take
Before you start digging or packing, it’s wise to assess which plants are realistic to move.
For Indoor Plants:
- Prioritise easy-care or sentimental varieties.
- Avoid moving large or delicate plants if space or temperature control will be an issue.
- Consider donating or gifting common or heavy plants that may not travel well.
For Outdoor Plants:
- Established garden plants, shrubs, or small trees can be difficult to uproot, especially in warmer months.
- Prioritise young or potted plants that are easier to transport.
- Some landlords or buyers may expect outdoor plants to remain — check your sale or tenancy agreement before removing anything.
Preparing Your Plants Before the Move
Giving plants time to adjust before the move will reduce stress and improve survival rates during transport.
Indoor Plants:
- Check for pests and remove dead leaves around 7–10 days before moving.
- Repot into plastic containers if your pots are heavy or fragile.
- Water lightly 2–3 days before moving. Soil should be moist, not wet.
- Label each plant if you’re changing their pots or if some require special care.
Outdoor Plants:
- Dig up carefully a few days before moving. Try to preserve as much of the root ball as possible.
- Place in containers or grow bags to keep soil intact and protect roots.
- Water well after potting, then allow excess water to drain off before transport.
- Trim back excessive growth to reduce shock and make handling easier.
Packing and Protecting Your Plants
Proper packaging is crucial for both houseplants and outdoor greenery to prevent breakage and help regulate temperature during the journey.
Houseplants:
- Place small pots in open-topped cardboard boxes. Fill gaps with newspaper or fabric for support.
- Wrap taller plants in breathable material like cotton sheets or paper.
- Avoid using cling film or non-porous plastics that can trap heat and moisture.
Garden Plants:
- Secure root balls in bags or buckets with soil intact.
- Wrap exposed branches or stems in fabric or hessian for protection.
- If transporting tools, stakes, or trellises with your plants, pack them separately and label clearly.
Transporting Plants on Moving Day
Moving day can be tough on plants, so careful handling is essential.
Top Transport Tips:
- Keep plants upright and secure in the footwell or on a flat surface.
- Avoid crushing foliage or placing items on top of plant boxes.
- Regulate temperature in your car — avoid leaving plants in a hot or cold vehicle for long periods.
- For long journeys, allow for fresh air by slightly opening windows.
Replanting and Settling in After the Move
Once you’ve arrived, plants need to be unpacked and settled promptly to minimise shock.
Houseplants:
- Remove from boxes and place them in similar light conditions to their old spot.
- Avoid repotting straight away unless absolutely necessary — wait a few weeks to allow them to settle.
- Resume your normal watering schedule and monitor for signs of stress, such as leaf drop or yellowing.
Garden Plants:
- Replant outdoor specimens as soon as possible.
- Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, loosen the soil, and water generously after planting.
- Use mulch or compost to protect roots and retain moisture.
- If replanting must wait (e.g. due to weather or soil conditions), keep plants in pots in a sheltered outdoor area and water regularly.
Legal and Practical Considerations
If you’re moving long-distance within the UK or abroad, consider the following:
- Check local restrictions: Some areas may have rules regarding the transport of soil or certain plant species, especially near conservation areas or across borders.
- Consider the season: Late autumn to early spring is the best time for moving outdoor plants when they are dormant.
With a little planning and preparation, moving house with your plants — both indoors and out — can be a stress-free experience. Whether you’re relocating a few favourite succulents or transplanting an entire patio garden, following these steps will give your plants the best chance of thriving in their new setting.
At New Horizons, we specialise in professional house removals Wiltshire and Swindon. Our team is happy to offer practical advice on moving house with plants and help you plan every aspect of your move.
Planning your move?
Get in touch with New Horizons for a free, no-obligation quote and expert support tailored to your needs.
