A household relocation can encompass endless checklists, throwing in packing materials, and tones of logistical challenges. Amongst other things that require special attention during transport, live plants almost always stir up quite many concerns for their owners. Making sure that plants and other greenery make it through the trip calls for good planning, thorough preparation, and a largely gentle treatment. So, whether you're crossing state lines or going off to a further distance, it pays to learn the best ways to take care of your botanical lads. Especially if you're relocating delicate plants, opting for a professional moving company such as a reputable Calgary moving company could eliminate much of the tension.

Preceding the actual day of the move, the plants would embark on a journey once more via a somewhat extended array of pre-move activities that lessen the shock and afford them a fighting chance to thrive in the new environment. Pruning should be started weeks ahead of the planned move. Dead, yellowed, or damaged leaves and stems must be trimmed off. This action improves air circulation around the plant and reduces its overall size, making it easier to package and transport. Take the chance now and thoroughly inspect your plants any time you prune. If you notice any unwelcome guests, tend to them right away so that you do not risk spreading them to other plants or finish houses. For larger specimens in heavy ceramic or terracotta pots, it is worth considering repotting them into lighter plastic containers. This cuts down the breakage risk during transit and makes it much easier for anyone handling bulky items through appliance moving services to safely manage them. Avoid repotting too late into the moving process; aim to have your plants acclimating to their new pots for at least a couple of weeks prior to the final stress of a move.  

With moving day approaching, adjust your watering regimen. One to two days before you intend to pack the plants, water them just enough to maintain slight moisture in the soil. Overwatering would cause the soil to become heavy and plant root rot during transit; the first being especially problematic if plants are confined in boxes for a long time. Underwatering is equally bad, however, as it leads to the drying out of plants. The goal here is to water the plants just enough so they won't dry out but not so much that they're soaked. Transplanting small trees or shrubs is usually best done in the fall after leaf drop or in early spring before new buds appear. Most importantly, make sure to have prepared the new planting location at your destination as far in advance as possible to limit the time they spend out of the ground.

On the moving day itself, work with utmost precision when packing the plants. Wrap the more delicate plants' leaves and stems in packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent rough bumps and temperature fluctuations, and fasten with soft ties or tape while leaving enough airflow. Cover the top of the soil areas with plastic bags to avoid soil spilling and maintain moisture, fastening it loosely around the base of the plant's stem. Place each plant cautiously inside cardboard boxes sturdy enough to hold them standing upright. Fill any empty spaces around the pots with packing paper or crumpled newspaper to keep them from shifting during transit. For bigger, top-heavy specimens, wood crates will often provide better stability and protection. Also, remember to tag each box: "FRAGILE" and "LIVE PLANTS," indicating which side is up, so they receive the proper handling.

During transit, maintaining the right climate holds the utmost importance. Keep the plants always in the shade within the moving vehicle. Do not allow plants exposure to direct sunlight or extreme heat; never let freezing temperature touch them either. If possible, ensure proper temperature maintenance in the range of 15-24°C (60-75°F). Also, never leave the plants inside a parked vehicle for fairly long, particularly when there's piercing sun outside or freezing temperature. This is so because the temperature within the vehicle can change rather quickly to become lethally unbearable. At the new house, begin unpacking the plants straight away from the boxes. Gently lift them out of the boxes, check for damages, and prune the wilted leaves. Give them a thin layer of mist, but avoid the temptation to drown them. Place them in areas with good lighting that's indirect, considering their own humidity, and temperature requirements. Give them 1-2 weeks to get used to the new ambience before repotting unless the pot is completely damaged or roots are tightly held. Following these steps would massively increase the chances of your green friends making a successful transition to their new home and flourishing with you.