Bringing Plants into WA from CA (Seattle, Olympia: house, inspection, garden)

[VeronikaW]

We'll be moving to the Seattle area at the end of this month. We have a couple potted plants and a potted lemon tree. Does anyone know if we'll be able to bring these with us??

Thanks!

V. =)

[scirocco22]

Who's going to be checking?

It's not like CA where they have agricultural stations at the border. Are those still in operation, btw? Seems like the last time I went through they weren't checking.


Thanks.

--'rocco

[PNW-type-gal]

I know that at one time you couldn't do it the other way around - California had an agricultural inspection station just below the Oregon border, and you weren't allowed to bring plants or fruits in to the state. I also know someone who had a pet ferret seized.

I don't know what the laws are, but I do know there's no inspection mechanism for private vehicles, so it's hard to see how they could stop you - moving vans might be another story.

And a potted lemon? In Seattle? Hope you are good at indoor gardening, because that plant will not survive outdoors in the winter. Even the more-hardy Meyer Lemons need to be taken indoors in winter.

[scirocco22]

Oh, hang on, I'm checking the WSDA site. There could be some restrictions but again, who's going to be checking.

BRB


Thanks.

--'rocco

[scirocco22]

From the WSDA site:

Plants

• I’m moving to Washington state and am wondering if I can bring my house plants with me?

Usually there are no restrictions on houseplants that have been kept indoors or inside a greenhouse and potted with an artificial mix, not garden soil. There may be additional requirements depending on where you are coming from. More information is available on our Nursery Inspection frequently asked questions webpage or call WSDA agency headquarters in Olympia at (360) 902-1874.

http://agr.wa.gov/FAQ/default.htm


Take a look at this site. There's also a link to other state's requirements too:

http://agr.wa.gov/PlantsInsects/Nurs...NurseryFAQ.htm


Thanks.

--'rocco

[VeronikaW]

Thanks both of you! Yes, CA still has the check points where they ask about fruit and such. I thought all states had those. Maybe we'll leave the meyer lemon tree with my mom. I didn't think about how hard it would be to take care of in Seattle.

Thanks, again!!

V. =)