Preparing For The Move
Three weeks before moving day:
Repot plants that are in clay pots into unbreakable plastic containers of the same size; changing pot sizes can be detrimental to some plants.
Two weeks before moving day:
Prune larger plants for better packing and to produce healthy, bushy, compact plants that are more attractive.
To prune, simply pinch back newer growth with your thumb and forefinger.
Succulents (e.g., cacti, jade plants) and ferns do not respond well to pruning.
One week before moving day:
Check plants for insects and/or parasites.
If you use insecticides on your plants, use them with extreme caution and follow label directions.
Two days before the move:
Water your plants normally. In winter months, over-watering may cause plants to freeze. In warmer weather, over-watered plants are subject to fungus growth during transit.
Moving day:
Pack your plants in the morning or the night before.
Wrap your large houseplants with an old sheet or tissue paper to prevent branches from breaking.
Place the pot in a box, making sure it fits snugly at the bottom. You may use conventional packing cartons, like dish packs, available from your Daniel's Representative.
If necessary, use paper around the base to hold the pot in place.
Punch air holes in the sides of the box and loosely fasten the lid so plants can breathe.
Set the boxes upright and clearly mark the lids. This will help you avoid loading them by mistake into the moving van.
If you follow this procedure, your plants will be ready to travel up to three days before requiring further attention.