How to Move Large House Plant Pots

Moving house plants can be challenging, especially if you have large pots filled with soil and plants. Whether you’re moving home or simply repositioning your plants, it’s essential to take precautions to avoid damaging both your plants and the pots. Here are some tips to help you safely move your large house plant pots.

Prepare the Plant Pots

The first step to moving your house plants is to prepare the pots. Start by watering the plants a day or two before the move to ensure the soil is adequately hydrated. This will make it easier to lift the plant out of the pot without damaging any roots. If the pot is too heavy, you can remove some soil, but don’t overdo it. You might also want to prune your plants before the move, to make them more compact and more manageable to move.

Gather Your Materials

You will need some materials to move your large house plant pots successfully. These include gloves, tape, scissors or a knife, rope or twine, and bubble wrap or old newspapers. Gloves will protect your hands, especially if you’re moving cacti or plants with thorns. Rope or twine will help to secure the plants during the move, and bubble wrap or old newspapers will protect the leaves and stems from damage.

Transport the Pots

To transport your large plant pots, you need a sturdy, flat surface, such as a wheelbarrow, a hand truck or a trolley. If you don’t have any of these, you can use a piece of plywood or a thick cardboard held securely in place. Once you have the transport method of your choice, lay down some old blankets or towels to cushion the pots during the move. Use the rope or twine to secure the pot to the transport surface, so it doesn’t topple over during the move.

Load the Pots

When loading the pots onto the transport surface, make sure to use leg strength and not your back. Bend your knees while keeping your back straight and use your legs to lift the pot. Lift with caution, keeping a firm grip on the pot, and place it gently onto the transport surface. Ensure that the pot is centered and secure before moving it. Also, try to avoid bumping the pot against any surfaces during the move, as this might cause the plants to become dislodged from their soil and damage the roots.

Unloading and Repotting

Once you have safely transported your large house plant pots, it’s time to unload and repot them. Carefully lift the pot off the transport surface onto a level surface where you have planned to keep the pot. Slowly slide the pot off the transport surface while holding it securely. If the plant is in good shape, place it back in the same pot, add some soil as necessary, and water the plant thoroughly. If the plant needs repotting, gently remove the plant from the pot, prune the roots if necessary, and place the plant in a new pot with new soil mixture.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to move your large house plant pots with ease and keep your plants in good condition. Always take care while moving your plants and pots so you can enjoy them for years to come.