You won’t be able to move the oak tree in your front yard or your cactus if you’re moving from Phoenix to Pittsburgh.  However, moving plants with you can be a great way to liven up your new home while keeping a piece of your old home and climate.

You’ll have the best chance of success if you only try to move potted plants or relatively small plants that are in your garden or the likes.  If you do decide to move some plants, there are a few well-known steps you’ll want to follow a few steps to ensure your plants survive the trip.

A Plant-Mover’s Checklist

Check restrictions in your new state – If you are moving to a different state, you’ll need to find out that state’s requirements for bringing in plants. California, Arizona and Florida are especially restrictive, but most states only allow plants grown indoors in sterilized soil. For outdoor plants, you may opt to bring clippings (see below) instead of the entire plant.

Pot them – Put plants in a plastic/non-breakable pot.

Prune them – Prune all your larger plants, with the exception of succulents and ferns. Pruning will both make for easier packing, and produce new growth.

Box them – Pack your plants in a sturdy cardboard box with a lid and air holes. To anchor them securely in the box, use packing peanuts or wadded newspaper. You can also use a wet paper towel to cover the leaves of the plant, keeping it moist and protected.