Moving house – Houseplants

Tips for Moving House with Your Houseplants
Houseplants are more sensitive than many people realise, often adapting to the unique microclimate of your home. When moving to a new property, the change in environmental conditions can shock your plants, leading to yellowing leaves, drooping, or even leaf drop as a defence mechanism. However, with proper care and attention, you can help ease their transition and ensure they thrive in their new surroundings.
Understanding the Microclimate of Your Current Home
Your houseplants have likely grown accustomed to the specific conditions of your current home, such as:
- Heating: Type and intensity, whether central heating, underfloor heating, or other systems.
- Humidity: Levels influenced by your home’s ventilation, windows, and heating methods.
- Drafts: Cold air from windows, doors, or poorly insulated areas.
- Light Levels: The amount and quality of sunlight your plants receive, depending on window placement and nearby structures.
When moving, these factors are likely to change, potentially disrupting your plants’ established routines.
Tips to Help Your Houseplants Adjust
- Replicate Existing Conditions
If your houseplants are thriving in their current location, try to match these conditions in your new home. Observe:- Sunlight: Find spots with similar levels of light exposure. South-facing windows are ideal for light-loving plants, while north-facing ones suit shade-tolerant varieties.
- Temperature: Keep plants away from radiators, drafts, and air conditioning vents to avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Handle Plants Carefully During the Move
- Transport with Care: Place plants in sturdy boxes lined with newspaper or packing material to minimise movement and prevent damage.
- Water Before Moving: Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to help them stay hydrated during the move.
- Ease the Transition with High Humidity
If your plants begin to look unwell—yellowing leaves or dropping foliage—place them temporarily in a high-humidity area, such as a bathroom or kitchen. The increased humidity helps reduce stress and supports their recovery. - Repot and Feed Appropriately
- Repot if Necessary: After the move, consider repotting your plants using a quality soil-based compost, such as John Innes compost.
- Feed Regularly: Use a high-potash liquid feed, like tomato food, to give your plants the nutrients they need during this period of adjustment.
- Monitor Moisture Levels
Ensure your plants are getting the right amount of water, as changes in temperature and humidity in your new home may affect how quickly the soil dries out. Overwatering or underwatering can worsen the stress.
Be Patient
Remember that it’s normal for houseplants to exhibit some signs of stress after moving. With consistent care and attention, most plants will adapt to their new environment over time.
If you’re concerned about a particular plant or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to GardenAdvice for personalised support. Use our online advice service or contact your local garden advisor for tailored solutions.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your houseplants settle into their new home as comfortably as you do!