Unsolicited Seed from China

Thousands of Americans have reported receiving unsolicited packages of seed from online sellers, which appear to have originated in China. These packages of seed are often labeled as other items, such as earrings or jewelry, and have no labeling to indicate the type of seed.

USDA believes this is part of a “brushing” scam, where companies falsify orders and reviews in an attempt to increase their online profile. In addition to seeds, bulbs and small plants have been received, along with a number of non-agricultural commodities.

State Departments of Agriculture are working with USDA to collect these unsolicited seeds, and submit them for testing to identify them, and determine whether they carry any plant pests. The seeds potentially pose a threat to U.S. agriculture and the environment, as they could contain noxious weeds or carry diseases or plant pests.

Individuals who receive unsolicited seed should mail the unopened seed packets to: USDA APHIS PPQ, Attn: Cindy Stuefer-Powell, 5940 S. 58th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68516

For more information on unsolicited seeds, visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/stakeholder-info/sa_by_date/sa-2020/sa-07/seedschina