INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENT OF CUT FLOWERS AND BRANCHES (2008-005)

[1] A large volume of cut flowers and foliage/branches is moved in international trade. These may form a pathway for spread of quarantine pests as fresh cut flowers are natural hosts for a wide range of insect pests, and have a higher potential for insect infestation due to their complex structure providing hiding spots for pest development, as insects naturally feed on them and are attracted to flowers due to their colour and scent. Guidelines on how to minimise risks from quarantine pests present on cut flowers and branches (hereafter referred to as cut flowers) prior to importation could contribute to mitigating risks related to the international trade of these commodities and to reducing delays in clearing consignments at borders.