Can I take a plant on the plane to the US Virgin Islands?

Question

My friend who lives in the US Virgin Islands want me to bring them a plant that apparently is not available there. 1: Can I take a plant on the plane (the TSA website does not address plants at all)?...and 2: Can I take this plant into the Virgin Islands ( it is afterall a US territory)?

Answer 1

Generally, any items of a biological nature - including plants, cuttings, seeds, vegetables and fruits - are subject to approval prior to importation into the United States. As a result, all plants, plant products, fruits and vegetables must be declared to customs and presented to a customs officer for inspection. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates the importation of plants and plant products. All plants must be free of soil, sand and earth.

Technically you're not leaving the United States, so I doubt the same rules and restrictions apply.  However, it's better to be safe than sorry.

I've attached links to some documents you might find useful.  The first is a list of plants, fruits and vegetables that we in the USVI are allowed to and not allowed to travel with to the US mainland and the second contains a list of what is allowed to be shipped between Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.  I recommend you use the contact information on the first link to find out more.

Answer 2

I cant find anything on this topic either. My best advice would be to just call the airline you booked with and ask.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful but I hope you enjoy the trip!

Answer 3

Even if you can it depends on the airline.  Check with your carrier...

Answer 4

I would say yes. You can transport a plant from state to state on the mainland. USVI is a territory of the USA. It's the same as traveling in the USA.

I will keep checking on the web to see if there are any restrictions. Why don't you call the airline you are flying on.

have a great trip and good luck)