Austin, Texas, January 7, 2026
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has warned residents about unsolicited seed packages from China, which may pose significant risks to agriculture and the environment. Since early 2025, the Texas Department of Agriculture has collected over 1,100 packages statewide. Officials stress the importance of biosecurity, urging residents not to open or plant these seeds and to contact the department for guidance. Similar incidents have emerged across the U.S., highlighting a national concern for agricultural safety.
Texas Residents Urged to Avoid Planting Unsolicited Seed Packages
Austin, Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has issued a warning to residents about unsolicited packages containing unidentified seeds arriving from China. Since February 2025, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has collected 1,101 such packages from over 100 locations statewide. The most recent collection occurred on December 29, 2025.
In a time when local entrepreneurs and businesses are continuously striving to innovate and contribute positively to the Texas economy, this situation serves as a reminder of the importance of biosecurity. The increased vigilance from the TDA reflects the strong commitment of Texas officials to protect the agricultural backbone of the state, which fuels not only local communities but also contributes significantly to the broader economy.
Potential Risks
The unsolicited seed packages pose significant threats to Texas’s agriculture and environment. Planting these seeds could introduce invasive species, agricultural pests, or plant diseases, jeopardizing local ecosystems and the state’s agricultural industry. This scenario illustrates the vulnerability of our agricultural heritage and underscores the need for continued diligence from both government entities and the private sector.
Recommended Actions
If you receive an unsolicited package containing seeds, do not open or plant them. Instead, keep the contents sealed in their original packaging and contact the TDA immediately at 1-800-TELL-TDA. The department is collaborating with federal partners to collect, test, and safely dispose of these packages to protect Texas’s farms, ranches, gardens, and natural ecosystems.
Background
This issue is not isolated to Texas. Similar incidents have been reported across the United States, including New Mexico, Ohio, and Alabama. The TDA is working closely with federal partners to address this ongoing threat to agricultural biosecurity.
Conclusion
As Texas residents, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed about potential risks to our agricultural landscape. By following the guidelines set forth by the TDA, community members can help safeguard not only their gardens but also the broader environment. Being proactive about issues like these is fundamental in fostering a resilient entrepreneurial spirit throughout Texas.
For more guidance on safe practices and the collection of unsolicited seed packages, Texas residents should reach out to the Texas Department of Agriculture at 1-800-TELL-TDA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I receive an unsolicited package containing seeds?
Do not open or plant the seeds. Keep the package sealed and contact the Texas Department of Agriculture at 1-800-TELL-TDA for further instructions.
Why are these unsolicited seed packages a concern?
These packages could contain invasive species, agricultural pests, or plant diseases that threaten Texas’s agriculture and environment.
How can I report an unsolicited seed package?
Contact the Texas Department of Agriculture at 1-800-TELL-TDA to report any unsolicited seed packages.
Key Features of the Unsolicited Seed Packages
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | China |
| Number Collected in Texas | 1,101 packages from over 100 locations |
| Potential Risks | Introduction of invasive species, agricultural pests, or plant diseases |
| Recommended Action | Do not open or plant; contact the Texas Department of Agriculture at 1-800-TELL-TDA |
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