Understanding the Process for Authorised Distance Plant Sellers and Plant Passport Applications

If you are a plant seller, it is essential to comply with the regulations for joining the authorised list of distance plant sellers and applying for plant passports.  

Joining the List of Authorised Distance Plant Sellers

Distance plant selling includes selling plants through online marketplaces, mail orders, or other remote methods where customers do not interact directly with the seller.

Sellers who operate in this manner must meet specific requirements set by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). 

Key Requirements 

To join the list of authorised distance plant sellers, you must: 

1. Register as a professional operator: This is required if you are involved in growing, producing, or selling plants. Registration ensures traceability in the event of plant health issues. 
2. Comply with plant health standards: Sellers must ensure plants meet the required health standards and are free from quarantine pests or diseases. 
3. Obtain plant passports where necessary: If you sell regulated plants or plant products, you may need to issue plant passports to meet traceability requirements. 

How to Apply 

1. Complete the online application form: Visit the UK Government’s official page for joining the authorised list of distance plant sellers. 
2. Provide accurate information: Include details about your business, such as the types of plants sold, how they are sold, and your plant health practices. 
3. Submit the application: Once reviewed by the APHA, your business may be added to the authorised list. 

Plant Passports: Application and Use

 
Plant passports are essential documents required for the movement of certain plants and plant products within Great Britain. They ensure that plants meet the legal requirements for plant health and help trace their origin in case of any health concerns. 

Who Needs Plant Passports? 

Plant passports are mandatory for businesses that: 

• Sell regulated plants or plant products. 
• Supply plants to professional operators such as garden centres or landscapers. 
• Transport plants across borders within the UK or to Northern Ireland. 

How to Apply for Plant Passports 

1. Register as a professional operator: As with distance sellers, registration is the first step. 
2. Apply for authorisation: This involves providing details about the plants you intend to sell, their source, and your inspection and record-keeping processes. 
3. Undergo inspections: APHA inspectors may visit your premises to ensure compliance with plant health standards. 
4. Receive authorisation: Once approved, you will be issued a unique plant passport authorisation number. 

Issuing Plant Passports 

Authorised businesses can issue plant passports, either physically or electronically. Each passport must include: 

• The plant passport title. 
• The country code and professional operator registration number. 
• Traceability codes, such as batch or lot numbers. 
• The botanical name of the plant. 
• Any additional information required for specific plant types. 

Key Considerations for Compliance 

1. Regular Inspections: Ensure your plants are free from quarantine pests and diseases by conducting regular health checks. 
2. Record-Keeping: Maintain detailed records of plant sales, inspections, and issued plant passports for at least three years. 
3. Training: Ensure that staff involved in issuing plant passports are trained in plant health regulations. 

Benefits of Compliance 

Joining the authorised list of distance plant sellers and adhering to plant passport requirements demonstrates your commitment to biosecurity. Compliance ensures customer confidence, protects the UK’s natural environment, and prevents the spread of harmful pests and diseases. 

For more details, visit the official UK Government guidance pages: 

Join the List of Authorised Distance Plant Sellers 

Plant Passports: Application