Buying seeds from abroad

[Flump]

I've found lots of seeds I like from a 'certain E bidding web site' and they are offering to ship from the USA is there a certain criteria regarding import regulations etc?

Apologies if this is in the wrong section

[HeyWayne]

Not sure myself - interesting to see what is said.

[SlugLobber]

You are allowed to import seeds, but not flora and fauna, so nothing actually growing. It's more to do with the risk of the pests they might contain, than the actual plant. Not sure if there are certain criteria re: quality of seeds, though (as in irradiation or whatever to make sure they are pest free!). Best to check on the customs website first.

[Flump]

Cheers for the info, I have since emailed Defra as Customs referred me to that site and asked them for info, as soon as I get anything I'll pop it on here for all to see

[Flump]

got a reply already...


"Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds would require a Phytosanitary Certificate as a requirement for entry to the United Kingdom. This is to certify that a Plant Health official from the exporting country has checked the seeds and found them to be free from plant pests and diseases. There would be charges involved from the US side for the issue of the certificate and also charges for checking on entry to the UK. You would also have to register as an importer and notify Plant Health prior to the consignments arrival.

Please let me know if you still intend to buy the seeds and I'll guide you through the process"

But what annoys and worries me is how easy it looks to buy them off the web????


This was the link I was looking at 20 MAMMOTH SUNFLOWER SEEDS -WORLD RECORD- 16' FEET TALL on eBay, also Plants, Seeds Bulbs, Gardening Plants, Yard, Garden Outdoor Living, Home Garden (end time 26-Oct-08 05:52:00 GMT)

What does everyone else think?

[Snadger]

I've bought loads of seeds from abroad off reputable firms and never had customs problems!

The only problem I find is that plants grown from these seeds may not be suited to your area!
That's why I like to buy mine from Hungary which must have a similar climate to NE England as they always seem to do well for me.

I've tried Seeds of Italy and never had much success in my region and some American veg seem to do ok whilst others don't!