Weekly ENews from Rep. Shelley Rudnicki

Maine House Republican Office sent this bulletin at 11/21/2022 01:53 PM EST
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Send Holiday Cheer Minus the Pests

Some tips from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry for safe handling of plant materials

Many Maine residents' holiday celebrations are incomplete without decorating with Maine-grown wreaths, trees, and other decorative plant material. Sending wreaths and trees to our friends and families across the country can help us feel connected even if we can't be together this holiday season. The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) reminds Mainers sending holiday greenery that they can save time and money and prevent product loss by shipping only healthy plant material. "Shippers should be aware of the many state laws and regulations regarding the movement of plants and forest products," warned Carole Neil, Assistant Horticulturist with DACF. "Many states closely monitor shipments to prevent the introduction of invasive insects and plant diseases. By planning, Maine shippers can speed up deliveries in this time-sensitive industry."

  • Import regulations vary from state to state. Check destination state regulations before sending plant material. Summary of plant health regulations for Maine-grown holiday decorations.
  • Shipping internationally? Many countries prohibit most types of plant material from being included in holiday decorations. Some countries may allow some holiday decorations with the proper certification. Email horticulture@maine.gov for more information.
  • Beware of invasive plants! Asian bittersweet and multiflora rose have pretty, decorative berries, but both are invasive and should not be included in holiday decor. Better plant choices with colorful berries include winterberry and holly.
  • Look for pests. Carefully inspect plant material before packaging to ensure no insects, egg masses, or other pest damage.
  • Clearly label packages. Begin with the statement "Grown in Maine" followed by the county of origin and the name and address of the shipper. Labels should also indicate the different types of greenery, nuts, fruits and cones used as decorations.
  • Don’t forget about spongy moth! Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar, formerly known as a gypsy moth) certification is required when sending plant material outside the spongy moth quarantine area. Contact the Maine USDA-PPQ office at 207-848-0000for more information.

Shippers with questions are invited to call: (207) 287-3891 or email horticulture@maine.gov. For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, visit www.maine.gov/dacf.

Wreaths Across America

Coming to several Maine locations is, what may people consider to be, the country’s longest veterans’ parade, the Wreaths Across America annual “Escort to Arlington.” This 12-truck convoy, the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit, and local supporters will be making a local stop on its way to Arlington National Cemetery to deliver veterans wreaths to our nation’s interred veterans.

  For a complete convoy schedule of locations and times or to sponsor a veteran’s wreath for placement this year at a location near you, or to learn more about volunteering, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

 

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