Taking Your Plants When Moving House: A Quick Guide

Moving house is one of life’s most stressful events and leaving a garden can be just as heartbreaking as leaving the house itself.

For many of us, our plants aren’t just “things” you can replace on a whim. We’ve often put a lot of time, energy and care into tending them. Some are reminders of friends and family, others may have traveled from previous properties, providing a living link back those times.

It’s no wonder leaving them behind can be a wrench.

So, can you take your garden plants with you when you move?

Yes. Within reason.

Before you start digging up your borders, it’s worth knowing where you stand legally.

In England and Wales, if you own the property and are selling it, plants in the ground are usually considered fixtures – part of the sale – unless agreed otherwise with the buyer. If you want to take rooted plants with you, you’ll need to make this clear on the “fixtures and fittings” form (TA10) and get the buyer’s agreement. Taking plants without permission could be considered “garden grabbing” and may even cause legal issues.

Potted plants, on the other hand, are classed as chattels and are yours to take, though it’s still polite to let the buyer know.

If you’re renting, your rights depend on your tenancy agreement and whether you planted the items yourself. You should check the agreement and speak to your landlord, ideally getting permission in writing for any plants you want to take. Pots and containers are generally fine to move, but leaving the garden in good order is important.

Whatever your situation, it’s best to be upfront and clear from the start. If there’s any uncertainty, ask your estate agent, solicitor, or landlord before the move. Sometimes, taking cuttings of a special plant is the simplest solution.

Practical tips for taking plants with you

Preparation is key.

Ideally before you even put the house on the market. That way you can pre-transplant plants you want to keep into pots, collect seed, make divisions or taking cuttings at the best times. Plus, it means you can be much clearer to your buyers about which plants will be coming with you.

Moving plants

Young shrubs

By this I mean planted in the last 1-2 years. They should be relatively easy to move, especially if you can do so in the dormant season. Get as much root as possible. If you’re planning to replant fairly quickly they can go into a pot not much larger than the root system with some good multipurpose compost. If you intend to keep them potted for longer, consider a larger pot and loam-based compost.

Established shrubs

Harder to move given their larger root system. Also consider the impact on the overall look of the garden. It’s likely these plants are integral to the overall feel of the space. If you do decide to try moving these, ensure you have been very clear with your buyers about your intention. Where possible lift them during the dormant season. Get as much root as possible, though you may need to cut some of the larger ones. Reduce the top-growth of the shrub, by at least 1/3.

Roses

I think it’s worth mentioning roses separately, as they often hold a special place in people’s hearts. It is possible to relocate an established rose bush. If you can dig it up in the dormant season so much the better. Get as much root as you possibly can and don’t be afraid to cut it back hard. Established climbers and ramblers may be a different story. It’s likely they contribute significantly to the charm of the property and will probably be harder to transplant. Your best bet here is to take cuttings.

Trees

Unless they’re very young, I wouldn’t advise trying to uproot a tree. If it has real sentimental value take cuttings or seed (if produced) along with plenty of photos.

Perennials

Generally easy. You can split a clump, lift the whole thing (be transparent with your buyers), take cuttings and/or collect seed.

What to leave behind

Some plants just won’t be practical to move.  If you need to leave them, think about cuttings or divisions so you still have a piece of them in your new garden. And consider leaving care advice for the new owners so they can get as much joy from them as you did.

The bottom line

It is possible to move with your plants – but it’s not a last-minute job. Start early and don’t underestimate the work involved.

Disclaimer: The  information in this article is for general guidance only based on the position in England and Wales. Always seek advice from a qualified solicitor, estate agent, or landlord for your specific circumstances.