Avoid spoiling your Mother's day in the U.S.: Why you shouldn't bring flowers, according to CBP
Planning to bring flowers for holiday Mother’s Day in the U.S.? Be aware — certain flowers are banned by Customs due to agricultural risks. Make sure your bouquet doesn't cause more harm than good!
As Mother's Day approaches in the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a reminder to travelers about the strict regulations concerning the importation of flowers and plant materials. These measures are in place to protect American agriculture from the introduction of pests and diseases that could harm domestic crops.
CBP agriculture specialists are conducting thorough inspections of floral imports, particularly during this peak season. The inspection process includes shaking the flowers to dislodge any hidden insects and using magnifying tools to detect pests or diseases. If any harmful pests are found, the entire shipment is seized to prevent potential damage to U.S. agriculture.
Why U.S. customs bans certain flowers at the border: protecting agriculture from harmful pests and diseases
Certain flowers and plants are prohibited from entering the U.S. due to the risk of spreading harmful pests and diseases. For example, chrysanthemums are banned when brought through passenger ports from Mexico because they can carry the Chrysanthemum White Rust fungus, which can seriously affect domestic flower producers.
Additionally, some bouquet fillers, such as Murraya (also known as orange jasmine), can harbor the Asian citrus psyllid, a pest that threatens citrus crops. If any bouquet includes infested greenery, the entire arrangement will be seized at the border.
Travelers urged to declare flowers and plants to CBP to avoid fines and protect U.S. agriculture
To avoid potential civil or criminal penalties and help prevent the introduction of pests and diseases into the U.S. ecosystem, travelers are advised to declare all flowers, plants, and agricultural products upon arrival. CBP provides resources to help travelers understand what items are allowed and how to properly declare them.
Travelers bringing flowers for Mother's Day may face surprises at the border, as U.S. customs crack down on prohibited plants. Photo: X
For more information on the regulations and to ensure compliance, travelers should visit the CBP website and consult the "Bringing Agricultural Products Into the United States" page. This will provide up-to-date guidance on what is permissible to bring into the country during the Mother's Day season.
