(Steve Coyle) wrote in
om:

In regards to this question:
Hello,

My husband and I are relocating to Fresno in a few weeks, and we are
getting contradictory information about whether or which plants we
can take with us. My understanding is that you can take houseplants
that have not spent time outdoors or at least don't have any critters
like fire ants in them. Does anyone have experience with the border
check point and what the procedure is? I don't want to bring a bunch
of plants and then have them thrown out at the border, I'd rather
give them away. Thanks for your help!

until soon, Hope

Good luck on your move, post a message to the group when you get
there.
Here is a page from the California department of Agriculture FAQ page
on bringing plants across the border. There is also a telephone number
for questions at the top of the page:
I've never tried bringing plants across but the last time I drove
through the checkpost, they were very serious and I suspect wanted to
know if Patty Hearst was in the car.
Check out their site at:

http://134.186.235.120/phpps/pe/faq_hse_plnts.htm

Take care, enjoy the trip.
Steve Coyle
www.austingardencenter.com


Thanks! I emailed the people at this site and got this response:

indoor houseplants may be inspected at the border station for surface
pests. If none are found they are ok to come in. Out-of-doors plants,
like patio plants, are not permitted entry.

George Loughner
Senior Agricultural Biologist
Pest Exclusion
916-653-1440