From my perspective as a plant, a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a top-heavy organism with a non-woody, often soft, central stem and very large, broad, and fragile leaves. My trunk is not as rigid as a tree's; it is designed to sway and grow towards light, not to be jostled and bent during travel. My large leaves are my solar panels, essential for photosynthesis. They are easily bruised, torn, or bent, which can permanently damage them and reduce my ability to produce energy. The root system, while robust in its pot, is sensitive to sudden jolts and compression. A sharp impact can break vital roots, compromising my ability to uptake water and nutrients, leading to severe transplant shock or worse.
Your preparation is vital for my survival. About a week before the move, please stop watering me. A lighter pot is easier to handle and, more importantly, slightly drier soil means it's less likely to slosh around and destabilize my root ball. It also reduces the risk of root rot if I am in a dark, stuffy moving truck for a period. A day or two before the move, gently gather my branches. Use soft plant ties or old t-shirt strips to loosely secure my larger stems together. This protects my leaves from rubbing against each other and snapping under their own weight. Do not tie me too tightly, as this can damage my bark and stems.
The most traumatic part of the move for me is the disturbance to my roots. If my pot is breakable, you must protect it to protect me. Wrap the entire pot and base of my trunk in a sturdy moving blanket or bubble wrap, securing it with tape or rope. This cushions me against bumps. For very large specimens, if possible, gently slide a large, sturdy bag or plastic wrap over the top of the pot and soil to prevent it from spilling out during the move. My stability is key. If I am too large to carry comfortably, consider using a plant dolly or furniture slider to wheel me out, avoiding any lifting that might strain and snap my trunk.
The moving vehicle is a hostile environment. I am extremely sensitive to wind, extreme temperatures, and low light. I must be the last thing loaded and the first thing unloaded. Never leave me in a closed, non-climate-controlled vehicle for an extended period; the greenhouse effect will quickly overheat and cook me. Similarly, cold drafts can cause severe leaf drop. Position me upright and secure me so I cannot tip over. If possible, transport me in a climate-controlled personal vehicle where you can monitor the temperature, rather than a dark, unventilated moving truck. Shield my foliage from direct, hot sun through the car windows.
Upon arrival at the new location, unpack me immediately. Find a spot with bright, indirect light similar to my previous home—do not suddenly place me in direct sun. Unbind my stems and leaves, allowing them to naturally settle. Check my soil moisture; I may need a small drink if the trip was long and dry, but avoid overwatering. Do not fertilize me. I am in a state of shock and need to recover. I will likely show my stress through some leaf drop. This is normal. Please be patient. Allow me several weeks to acclimate to the new space's light, humidity, and temperature before considering any further moves or repotting.
