Defra launch service to check plant health information and import rules

Members searching for information regarding specific plant health and import rules might historically have either looked on the BALI website or perhaps searched Google for an answer. Whilst both Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) websites contain a wealth of information, it is not always easy to find quickly.   

This looks set to change with the launch of a service by Defra which provides:

• the latest rules for importing plants, plant products or seeds for commercial use
• non-native pests and diseases that need reporting
• current information on non-native plants pests and diseases

Whilst the service requires the user to know the name of the plant, plant product, seed, pest or disease to find plant health information, either a scientific name or common name can be used.

The service is free to use via the Defra website, using this link.