Department warning over seeds in the post

Officials say that as the seed origin/type is “currently unknown”, they are asking the public not to plant the seeds to prevent potential introduction of pests or invasive plant species into the country.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has issued a warning to homeowners and avid gardeners across the country against planting “unsolicited seeds” received in the post from an “unknown sender” located outside of the EU.

“We have received reports from members of the public who have received unsolicited seeds in the post from an unknown sender from outside of the EU.

“This is similar to events reported in numerous other countries around the world, and some of these packages have been labelled as 'jewellery',” the Department said, in a warning message published earlier this week.

Officials say that as the seed origin/type is “currently unknown”, they are asking the public not to plant the seeds to prevent potential introduction of pests or invasive plant species into the country.

“Anyone importing seeds, plants or plant products from outside of the EU must be registered with us and consignments require a phytosanitary certificate to prevent the introduction of harmful pests and invasive species into Ireland and the EU,” the Department reminds.

Registration is free of charge, and information and forms are available HERE.

“Don't plant or compost the seeds as they may pose a risk to the environment. Always source any #plants and #seeds responsibly from known suppliers.”

Anyone who has received seeds by post that they otherwise didn't order are asked to email: plantimports@agriculture.gov.ie.