Moving home: guide to moving garden plants

Whilst moving garden plants when relocating house may seem like a simple process, homeowners are warned that they could face legal action if they uproot their garden without making it clear to the buyer that they plan to do so at the point of sale.

The plants in your garden are classed within the fixtures and fittings list which you provide to the buyer during the sales process – so, if you plan to take the plants with you to your new home, you must make sure you clarify this with the buyer in writing beforehand.

The points covered in this article will advise those moving house with their garden plants on what action to take and what the process entails.

1. Avoid ‘garden grabbing’

For many homebuyers, the look of the garden and how it is presented can determine whether or not they choose to buy the house. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of ‘garden grabbing’ cases, where people moving home load their garden plants into their removals vans to take with them without notifying the buyers.
As such, those moving into the property are left disappointed and may even threaten legal action due to this breach of contract.

Garden plants form part of the sales agreement, so removing them without the permission of those moving in can invalidate the transaction. Therefore, you must make sure you give the buyer written warning of your intention to take the plants from the premises prior to the sale.

2. Different plants have different seasonal requirements

It is advisable to move your plants during the ‘dormant season’ from October to February, as plant growth has virtually stopped due to a drop in temperature and shorter days. When it comes to the requirements of your plant, we recommend you contact a gardening professional who can advise you on the best action to take during the move.

It’s worth noting that if you are moving overseas, you should carefully consider the climate of the country you are moving to so you know whether your plants can withstand the conditions.

3. Size of the plants

Planning is key prior to moving any type of plant to ensure they are handled and transported in the most appropriate way. When it comes to the actual transportation of the plants, you must carefully measure their size to ensure there is enough space for them to fit in the removals vehicle with all of your other belongings. As part of our specialist removals service, here at Harradines we will plan the move thoroughly to accommodate any delicate items and ensure all of your plants are moved with the utmost care.

4. Preparing your plants for moving day

After cutting and pruning your plants in preparation for moving day, they must then be stored in a dry place – such as your garage – one week before the big day. By allowing the plants to dry, you will prevent other items in the removals vehicle from getting wet, so all of your belongings remain in pristine condition.

As plant pots, troughs and containers are not usually moved very often, frost damage may not be detected until moving day when the pots fall to pieces as they are picked up and put in the van. If you are worried that your pots, troughs or containers may be slightly delicate, it’s recommended that you remove the plants and soil from inside to relieve some of the strain.
From packing and storage to surveying and transportation, here at Harradines we offer a comprehensive range of home removals services – including plants – to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. To find out more about any of our services, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.