Texas officials warn of mystery seed packages arriving by mail

Texas agriculture officials are issuing a statewide alert, including for residents in West Texas, as unsolicited packages containing unidentified seeds have started to appear in mailboxes once more. This development has sparked concerns about potential risks to crops and the state's overall agricultural economy.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller stated that the so-called “mystery seeds” typically come from abroad and are often misidentified to evade inspection. Numerous packages are dispatched directly from China, often labeled as everyday items such as toys or household goods.

“These seeds arrive in your mailbox.” They were not part of your order. "The issue begins with a lack of understanding of what they truly are," Miller stated.

Officials warn that the unidentified seeds pose a risk; planting or disposing of them incorrectly could introduce invasive plant species, insects, or diseases that could jeopardize Texas agriculture. The Texas Department of Agriculture has reported that certain seeds tested to date have been classified as invasive species, while others pose unidentified risks.

Miller cautioned that even a minor biological threat could lead to significant repercussions, especially in agricultural areas that rely heavily on cotton production. “A seemingly minor pest has the potential to jeopardize millions of acres of cotton,” he stated. Cotton continues to serve as a significant economic force in West Texas and throughout the state.

State officials have reported collecting over 1,100 packages of unidentified seeds in recent months, with a noticeable increase in reports following the holiday shipping season. In certain instances, packages have included unidentified liquids, raising further safety concerns for both residents and inspectors.

Authorities emphasized that residents must refrain from opening the packages, planting the seeds, or discarding them in the trash. Improper disposal may lead to seeds germinating in landfills or dispersing into adjacent fields and natural habitats. Residents are urged to report the packages so they can be collected and tested safely.

Miller stated, “Allow the experts to take care of it.”

After collection, the seeds are dispatched to both state and federal laboratories for thorough analysis. The situation is under close observation across the country, as comparable incidents have been documented in several states. Officials have indicated that Texas seems to be facing one of the highest rates of reported incidents.

The Texas Department of Agriculture has issued a call to action for individuals who receive unsolicited seeds. The Texas Department of Agriculture encourages recipients to promptly report these occurrences by contacting 1-800-TELL-TDA.