Unsolicited or "Mystery" Seeds: What You Need to Know and Do

In recent years, individuals across the United States, including Pennsylvania, have reported receiving unexpected packages containing seeds. These shipments may arrive without a clear connection to a purchase, or they may be included with an order as a substitute or additional item. In many cases, the recipient’s name and address are correct, and the package may appear to come from a legitimate source.

Although these seeds may seem harmless, they can pose risks to agriculture, natural resources, and home landscapes if not handled properly.

Why Are Unsolicited Seeds a Concern?

Seeds entering the United States without proper inspection or documentation, referred by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), to as non-compliant seeds, can introduce invasive plant species, insect pests, and plant pathogens (diseases).

While these seeds are not known to pose a direct risk to people or pets, they may threaten crops, gardens, and ecosystems. Some plant species are prohibited because they can spread aggressively or carry harmful organisms.

To date, there have been no confirmed cases of these seed shipments leading to new pest or disease outbreaks in the United States. However, prevention remains critical.

Are All of These Seeds Truly "Unsolicited"?

Not necessarily. Reports from APHIS have shown that some seed packages are linked to online purchases. Certain websites may appear to be U.S.-based but are operated internationally and ship seeds that do not meet U.S. import requirements.

What Should You Do If You Receive Seeds?

If you receive seeds that you did not expect or cannot verify:

• Do not plant the seeds.
• Do not discard them in the trash, burn them, or destroy them.
• Keep the seeds and all packaging materials intact.
• Report the shipment immediately.

If you have already planted the seeds, it is still important to report them. Plant health officials can provide guidance based on the situation.

How to Report Seed Packages

Step 1: Contact Your State Plant Health Director

For Pennsylvania, contact Timothy Newcamp at timothy.e.newcamp@usda.gov

If you are located outside of Pennsylvania, you can find your State Plant Health Director through the USDA APHIS website.

Step 2: Provide Detailed Information

Include as much of the following as possible:

• Your name and contact information
• Date the package was received
• Shipping carrier (e.g., USPS, FedEx) and tracking number
• Whether the seeds were ordered (include vendor or website if applicable)
• Photos of the seeds, packaging, and shipping label
• Any invoice or documentation included in the package

Step 3: Store the Seeds Safely

• Place the seeds in a sealed bag
• Store them in a freezer
• Keep all packaging and documents until contacted by officials

What Happens After You Report?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in collaboration with state agriculture agencies, will:

• Collect and examine reported seed samples
• Identify plant species
• Assess potential risks from pests, diseases, or invasive characteristics

These efforts help protect U.S. agriculture, natural resources, and home landscapes.

Ongoing Efforts

APHIS continues to work with domestic and international partners to reduce the distribution of non-compliant seeds. This includes outreach to online vendors and coordination with foreign regulatory agencies to improve compliance with U.S. import regulations.

Key Take-Home Messages

• Do not plant seeds from unknown or unexpected sources
• Always report and retain seeds and packaging
• These efforts help prevent the introduction of invasive species and plant health threats

If you receive a suspicious seed package, reporting it promptly is one of the most important steps you can take to protect Pennsylvania's agriculture and environment.

More Information

USDA APHIS -  Non-compliant seeds what you need know