The Texas Department of Agriculture has issued a warning to residents against planting unsolicited seed packets that have been arriving in the mail from unknown senders. Over the past year, the department has collected more than 1,000 of these mysterious packages, which were initially traced back to China.
The issue came to light in February 2025 when a resident in Clute received an unexpected package containing unidentified seeds and an unknown liquid. Since then, the department has cautioned Texans to exercise extreme caution with any unsolicited mail. To date, officials have gathered a total of 1,101 seed packets from 109 different locations across the state.
This problem appears to extend beyond Texas, with similar reports emerging from states such as Ohio, New Mexico, and Alabama, indicating a broader effort to distribute these mysterious seeds.
Biosecurity Concerns
Texas agriculture officials emphasize that these small packets could pose significant risks if not handled correctly. The potential introduction of invasive species through these seeds could have serious implications for the state’s agricultural biosecurity.
“At a glance, this might seem like a small problem, but this is serious business,” stated Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. “The possible introduction of an invasive species to the state via these seeds poses real risks to Texas families and the agriculture industry. We need everyone to report these packages when they arrive so the contents may be gathered and disposed of properly.”
The Texas Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with federal partners, is actively working to collect, test, and safely dispose of the foreign seeds. Commissioner Miller expressed determination to protect residents, stating, “Whether it’s part of an ongoing scam or something more sinister, we are determined to protect Texans. Unsolicited seeds coming into our country are a risk to American agriculture, our environment, and public safety. Texas isn’t going to take chances when it comes to protecting our people and our food supply.”
What Residents Should Do
If you receive an unsolicited package, do not open it. Keep the contents sealed in their original packaging and contact the Texas Department of Agriculture immediately at 1-(800) TELL-TDA for guidance on safe collection and disposal.
