Odd Seeds Arrive In FL Mailboxes: What To Do If You Get Them

FLORIDA — State officials are warning residents of a scam that involves unusual seeds mailed to random Florida homes.

The seed packets, which may arrive unexpectedly in packages containing Chinese characters, may show the name "China Post" and also could be labeled as jewelry, said the Florida Department of Agriculture in a news release.

The seeds are likely part of a scam known as "brushing." In the brushing scam, companies attempt to boost online sales by purchasing their own products through fake buyer accounts. The products are shipped to a real address, to someone who didn't order the item. The seller writes a positive review of their items from the fake buyer account.

In a warning this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture made clear: "Do not plant seeds from unknown origins."

As of July 28, FDACS has received at least 631 reports from Florida residents that have received suspicious seed packages. The content of the seed packages remains unknown at this time, until testing by the USDA takes place.

“Plant seeds from unknown sources may introduce dangerous pathogens, diseases, or invasive species into Florida, putting agriculture and our state’s plant, animal and human health at risk,” said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. “Anyone receiving these suspicious seed packets should not plant them, but should report it to our department immediately, so that our inspectors can safely collect them for analysis.”

The USDA is currently collecting seed packages from recipients and will test their contents and determine if they contain anything that could be of concern to U.S. agriculture or the environment, officials say. Agencies across the country are warning of the scheme, from states such as Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.

Floridians who receive unsolicited seeds are asked to retain the seeds and packaging, including the mailing label. If opened, double bag and seal the seeds. Do not plant them or discard loose seeds.

To report the package to the US Department of Agriculture, call 800-877-3835 or email SITC.Mail@aphis.usda.gov. USDA will provide further instructions.