Unsolicited seeds
Get disposal guidance for unsolicited seeds
If you receive a package of seeds that you did not order, do NOT open the seed package. Follow the guidelines listed below.
Voluntary Surrender of Material for Destruction:
Surrender material to any PPQ Office. Contact your respective USDA State Plant Health Director for locations and options.
Louisiana State Plant Health Director
Email: Joseph.J.Bravata@usda.gov
Phone: (225) 298-5425 or (504) 715-9535
Mailing Address:
4354 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd, Suite 150
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Disposal Option for Seed Packages:
Do not open the seed packet.
Completely wrap and enclose the packet with duct tape.
Place the wrapped seed packet in a zip-lock bag, squeeze out any air, and seal.
Place inside another zip-lock bag, squeeze out any air, and seal.
Fold over to reduce size and completely cover the folded bag with duct tape. This will help prevent the bag from bursting and will keep water and sun from reaching the seeds.
Discard in trash.
Destruction Option for Potted Seeds/Plants:
Remove the plants, including soil, and place inside a plastic bag. Use the thickest plastic bag available. Squeeze as much air out of the bag as possible and seal.
Place inside a second plastic bag. Squeeze as much air out of the bag as possible. Seal the second bag.
Dispose of the double-bagged plant material/soil into trash, do not compost.
Dispose of the planting container in 2 trash bags as described above (recommended).
If you wish to keep the container, remove as much soil as possible from inside the pot with a paper towel
Wash the planting container with soap and water to remove any remaining dirt. It's important to wash the container over a sink or other container to catch the run-off. Put the run-off down the drain or flush down a toilet.
Soak the planting container in a 10% bleach solution for 30 minutes and rinse.
Destruction Option for Seeds/Plants Sowed in Ground:
Remove the seeds or plants and at least 3 inches of the surrounding soil and place inside a plastic bag.
Squeeze out the air and tightly seal the bag.
Place the bag inside a second plastic bag, squeeze out the air and seal it tightly. Put the bag in the municipal trash. Do not compost it.