ODA: Do not plant unsolicited packages of seeds

REYNOLDSBURG — The Ohio Department of Agriculture has been notified that several Ohio residents have received unsolicited packages in the mail containing seeds that appear to have originated from China. The types of seeds in the packages are unknown and may contain invasive plant species. Similar seed packets have been received recently in several other locations across the United States. Anyone who receives a package of this type is urged not to plant the seeds. If they are in sealed packaging, do not open the package. If possible, retain the original packaging because that information may be useful to trade compliance officers as they work through this issue. Unsolicited seeds could be invasive species, contain noxious weeds, could introduce diseases to local plants or could be harmful to livestock. Invasive species and noxious weeds can displace native plants and increase costs of food production. ODA and USDA work to prevent the introduction of invasive species and protect Ohio agriculture. All foreign seeds shipped to the United States should have a phytosanitary certificate which guarantees the seeds meet requirements. Anyone who receives seeds should report the delivery to ODA by visiting the agency's website, agri.ohio.gov. Go to Divisions, then Plant Health, then Resources, then Unsolicited Seed Report. Recipients may contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Anti-smuggling Hotline by calling 800-877-3835 or emailing SITC.Mail@aphis.usda.gov.