Once upon a time, a lovely friend gave me the cutest little sprout of a lemon tree. With a level of anticipation similar to “Jack and the Beanstalk,” I found great joy observing the seedling as it grew taller, leafier, and sturdier! When military orders came along, I followed advice from a local garden center on how to prepare the young tree for our cross-country move.
To pick up my lemon tree story, here's what I was told about moving it:
After several long days of travel, the little lemon tree was in better spirits than my spouse and I were! Then, as we neared the state of California, the unthinkable happened! (insert dramatic music) The roadway merged into a checkpoint operated by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and all vehicles transporting any type of fruit, vegetable, or plant had to be inspected. Due to the need to keep the steady flow of traffic moving, the inspectors had no time for sentiment. Long story short... there was no happily ever after for my little lemon tree.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services offers two main points to save time when passing through an inspection station.
1. Declare all fruits, vegetables, and plants for inspection.
2. Allow easy access to all plant material:
Although it may seem harsh to lose your favorite greenery, safety regulations are in place for a reason. The state of California is bordered with mountains, desert, and ocean. If anything new is introduced, it could cause havoc on the unique environment within those borders.
On a similar note, if you have military orders to California or another state with similar regulations, your moving company may insist that any yard and garden equipment is power washed or thoroughly cleaned before shipping. Preventing contaminated soil or outdoor residue from entering The Golden State helps keep ecosystems intact.
No matter where you're headed, if you're traveling with plants you may want to check the state-to-state plant health regulations. The National Plant Board has a statewide directory online.
If I may suggest, it may not be a good idea to sneak your house plants into a moving box. Don't try to be sly by adding potted plants to your household goods shipment. Plant survival success stories are rare. Also, McMurphy Movers of Massachusetts explains, “If your carrier finds out that you’ve shipped live plant material, they may void the shipping contract.”
Even if that hidden Peace Lily brings you zen, you would be in quite a pickle if your moving contract is revoked.
Since it may not be lawful to drive your plants to your next home and your mover may refuse to ship your plants, what can you do?
If they're sentimental to you, ask for periodic photos of the blossoms.
Use the money earned to buy new plants at your new address.
Some varieties of plants bring calming notions. Some plants even clean the air of impurities.
Often, retirees enjoy light gardening chores. Residents in elder care facilities may take turns pruning and watering. Or, simply seeing the plants flourish can bring happiness and a sense of purpose.
(Be sure to check on the legalities of shipping plants before you do this.)
Some tips for mailing sprouts:
Vow to visit a popular garden center in your new area. Learn from a horticulture expert about which plants are best for the climate of your new neighborhood.
When you arrive at your new assignment, as you look around your new abode you’ll most likely have an idea of where your household goods will go and what will fit. Along those same lines, once you are moved in and settled, you may have a better idea of what size of plants will work for your indoor and outdoor space. Consider this time of transition a fresh start to decorate with whatever flora and fauna trips your fancy!
Post is for informational purposes only. Be sure to consult your local and state ordinances.
Main image from Flickr user Clivid.