I'm really excited about my wisteria that's starting to bloom beautifully, and I'm planning to visit my daughter across the country later this week. I can't help but think about bringing her a few branches since she has some great memories of sitting under the wisteria when she was living here. But I'm wondering if I'm crazy to even think about doing this! The trip involves two flights. Would the branches survive the journey? I'm considering carrying them on the plane. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this idea—am I nuts for wanting to try? And if you think I should go for it, what tips do you have for keeping the blooms intact during the trip? Should I pick them fully bloomed or just before? My plan was to wrap the cut ends in damp paper towels and tinfoil, similar to how I carry cut flowers for a neighbor. Let me know what you think!
3 Answers
People do transport plant matter all the time through shipping. If they can send this stuff via ground mail, I'm sure you'll be fine bringing them on the plane! Just make sure they’re packed correctly.
A friend of mine once sent me some blooming Mountain Laurel from the north, and it was a lovely surprise! They did arrive a bit wilty, but after a quick drink in a vase, they perked up. She wrapped the branches in newspaper and put everything in her luggage, which worked well! I say, go for it! Just make sure it's well packed.
If you're going to attempt this, definitely wrap the cut ends in wet paper towels and secure them with plastic wrap and rubber bands to prevent any leaks. Then, cover it in tissue paper and place that in a moisture-proof bag. Packing it snugly between some clothes in your luggage should help keep it safe. Just check with your airline about carrying live plants, but since it’s domestic, you should be good!
Honestly, I'd lean toward the ones that aren't fully bloomed yet. They'll likely survive the trip better and still have a chance to bloom once you get them in water!
Thanks for the packing tips! Should I go for fully bloomed branches or ones that are still budding? I'm concerned about whether they will bloom after cutting, but it might be safer to take the less delicate ones.
That’s a good point! Maybe boxing them up might be better than trying to hold them in my arms during the flight.