Flora travel encompasses two journeys: exploring the world’s botanical wonders and the task of moving with your own plants. This can mean traveling to see unique global plant life, known as botanical tourism, or carefully transporting personal plants when you relocate.
Rules for Traveling with Plants
Transporting plants across state or international borders requires careful planning. For domestic travel by car, be aware of agricultural checkpoints between states, like those entering California, where officers inspect for pests and prohibited species. When flying domestically, plants can be brought as carry-on or checked luggage if they meet airline restrictions. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows plants through security, but they are subject to inspection.
International plant travel is more complex due to strict customs regulations designed to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Nearly all countries require you to declare plants and may require a phytosanitary certificate. This official document is issued by the exporting country’s agricultural department, certifying that the plant is healthy. Obtaining one requires an application and an inspection.
Many countries also prohibit importing soil, so plants may need to be transported bare-root, with their roots wrapped in moist paper towels. Before traveling internationally with plants, check the specific rules of your destination country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) provides these regulations for entry into the United States.
Top Destinations for Botanical Tourism
The Amazon Rainforest, spanning several South American countries, is a hub of biodiversity, home to an estimated 40,000 plant species. Here, you can find giants like the Kapok tree and the massive Victoria Amazonica water lily. Guided tours with local experts can provide insights into the medicinal and cultural uses of these plants.
In the Netherlands, the Keukenhof Gardens present a different kind of botanical beauty. Open only in the spring, Keukenhof showcases more than 7 million hand-planted flower bulbs, with over 800 varieties of tulips. The peak season, from mid-April to early May, offers a stunning display of color, and the gardens are located in the heart of the Dutch flower fields.
For a curated experience, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London, is a global leader in plant science and conservation. It houses the “largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world.” Kew serves as a center for scientific research and education, and its vast glasshouses contain plants from across the globe, offering a worldwide botanical tour in one location.
Preventing the Spread of Invasive Species
Responsible flora travel involves an awareness of invasive species. An invasive species is a non-native organism that causes ecological or economic harm in its new environment. They can outcompete native plants for resources, disrupt food webs, and alter entire habitats. The financial impact is also significant, with billions of dollars spent on control and mitigation efforts.
Travel is a primary way these species spread. Tiny seeds or pathogens can hitchhike on hiking boots, gear, and vehicle tires. Insects can hide in firewood or untreated wood packaging, while aquatic plants can become entangled on boats and trailers. Bringing home a plant from abroad can accidentally introduce a new pest or disease.
To be a conscientious traveler and help protect native ecosystems, take the following precautions:
- Always declare all plant materials to customs officials.
- Before and after hiking, clean your footwear and equipment to remove soil and seeds.
- Never transport firewood from one location to another.
- Do not release unwanted pets or aquarium plants into the wild.