In preparation for Mother’s Day on May 14th, agriculture specialists from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have conducted inspections on over 1 billion cut flower stems across the United States since April 1st. These flowers are sourced from suppliers in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Colombia stands as the primary shipping country, accounting for more than 650 million flower stems, with a majority passing through Miami International Airport. Throughout the inspections, CBP successfully intercepted 1,514 significant pests of various species.
While importing flowers from other countries is permissible, certain flowers and plant materials commonly used in floral arrangements are restricted due to their potential to harbor plant pests and diseases that can harm U.S. agriculture. The introduction of a single pest could result in millions of dollars in crop damages. For instance, the Noctuidae family, also known as owlet moths, includes over 35,000 documented species known to feed on a wide range of herbs, shrubs, trees, and crop plants such as beans and corn, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Traditionally, CBP agriculture specialists experience their busiest periods during Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and the Easter holiday weekend. The most sought-after flowers during these occasions are roses, mixed bouquets, and chrysanthemums.
To facilitate the importation of flowers, plant materials, and other agricultural items, CBP recommends individuals to refer to the CBP Information Center on the official CBP website or contact (877) 227-5511 for guidance.
