Potted indoor plants are very delicate and can easily sustain damage when moving or handling various home improvement projects. However, unlike before, growing plants in self-storage units is now possible. Growing plants in storage units provide a temporary solution for homeowners juggling between their old and new homes. It is also a convenient option for those who are repainting, replacing their floors, or making other remodels that affect plant life.
Unfortunately, not all plants can survive the conditions in self-storage units. You should also use this as a short-term solution and grow select species that can survive such conditions. Ideally, plants that don’t require a lot of sunlight can grow in self-storage units. This includes Chinese evergreens, snake plants, and cast-iron plants.
The Benefits of Putting Plants in Self-Storage
You should move adaptable plants to self-storage units for the following benefits:
1. Reduces Clutter
While they are beneficial, indoor plants can obstruct or make it difficult for homeowners to relocate, renovate, or organize their homes. Moving your plants into self-storage units allows you to complete your move or other projects without much hassle.
2. Secure
Self-storage units also provide unmatched security. Indoor plant enthusiasts understand the importance of plants in their homes and wouldn’t risk losing them, especially select plant species. If you aren’t comfortable leaving your potted plants outdoors or keeping them in your friends’ place when moving or renovating, consider storing them in self-storage units. Most self-storage units have extensive security features, such as 24-hour CCTV, alarm systems, and electronic gates that guarantee the safety of your plants.
3. Convenient and Flexible
Self-storage units are very convenient and flexible. You can access the unit early in the morning or late at night as you wish. This means you can tender to your plants without much interference. However, as mentioned, you should only store plants that can survive the conditions of self-storage units.
When Should You Put Plants into Self-Storage?
Move your plants to self-storage units when:
- Renovating your home – whether you are carving out interior walls, replacing your leaky roof, or adding a new room, get your indoor plants out of your way. Major and minor renovations can significantly damage your potted plants.
- Moving to a new home – relocating to a new home is daunting. It requires that you prepare adequately, pack, and hire a moving company. The entire process is challenging, and stowing away some things, such as potted plants, can ease the process.
- Running out of space – you should also consider moving your potted plants into a storage unit if you are running out of space in your home. Self-storage units provide a secure and affordable option for storing important items. They are a sensible option for storing items you don’t need daily.
- House clearance – in unfortunate situations, such as the passing of your loved one, you can store the decedent’s belongings, including potted plants, in a storage unit. This often happens if you need to clear the person’s apartment or home for probate reasons.
Is it Safe to Put Plants in Self-Storage?
As mentioned, not all plants can be kept in self-storage units. However, you can store your plants successfully with the following tips.
- Proper packaging – you should repackage the plants to make moving and storage easier. For instance, move small plants from individual pots to large pots that can hold large amounts of water.
- Avoid watering – while this is counterintuitive, you shouldn’t water plants in self-storage units daily. Watering daily dampens the soil, potentially promoting mold and mildew growth. It can also harbor fungal infections.
- Choose climate-controlled units – move your plants to climate-controlled units, which allow regulation of temperatures and moisture levels.
The Bottom Line
Whether you are remodeling, moving, or traveling, you can store your potted plants safely in self-storage units. However, you should consult the facility manager before moving your plants to ensure it doesn’t go against the facility’s regulations.