CBP: Mother's Day flowers from Mexico can be seized

05/09/2014

Mother’s Day is right around the corner.

Many have already bought their mothers a gift but for those who are planning to head across the border to pick up something sweet must be mindful: what you buy in Mexico might have to stay in Mexico.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists working at South Texas ports of entries to keep  are busy making sure insects, pests and diseases that could harm the agricultural and floral industries of the United States from crossing over.

CBP officials say if you plan to import flowers and plants from Mexico to advise your florist that the arrangements are destined for U.S. delivery.

Some flowers and plant materials commonly found in floral arrangements are prohibited, including gladiolas, chrysanthemums and choysia (a green citrus-like floral filler) due to pest risk.

Also, you’ll need to declare all items you’re bringing over to CBP officers to avoid civil or criminal penalties.

Before you head over and make the purchase make sure to click the link below for a full list of necessary detail to make Mother’s Day as pain free as possible. 

Click here for a full PDF copy of the Cut Flowers and Greenery Import Manual


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