Crime
More Suspicious Chinese Seeds Being Mailed To Texas Residents
Agriculture officials in Texas are warning residents of another wave of mysterious seeds from China being shipped people who never ordered them.
The Texas Department of Agriculture and Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller on Thursday reported a “sharp spike” in deliveries of unsolicited packages of unidentified seeds in the state. The agency said that it has already collected 126 mystery seed packets in just the first 15 days of 2026, with most reports coming in after it put out an alert on Jan. 5.
The activity follows a similar nationwide issue back in 2020, when the Chinese seeds shipped to unsuspecting residents were reported to be tied to so-called “brushing scams,” in which third-party sellers send unsolicited packages to people in order to create fraudulent “verified buyer” accounts and positive reviews aimed at deceiving real potential customers.
But the unknown seeds may belong to harmful or prohibited plant species, and the packages may contain harmful pests.
“These packages are pouring in faster and further than ever before,” Miller said in a statement. “They may look innocent, but the danger is real. One invasive species, pest, or pathogen could devastate Texas farms, ranches, natural resources, and food supply. We cannot gamble with Texas agriculture.”
The agency said it is collaborating with state and federal agencies to test the contents of the packages and safely dispose of them, as well as to determine whether Texas is being “disproportionately” targeted.
Members of the public who receive a package of unsolicited, unknown seeds are warned to not open the packages, keeping them sealed in their original packaging, and to contact the Texas Department of Agriculture immediately at 1-800-TELL-TDA for safe handling and collection instructions.
“Texans need to stay sharp,” Miller warned. “Report every suspicious package. We cant take any chances that might jeopardize our producers, the environment, or food security. Together, we can stop this threat before it takes root. Please report seed package deliveries to protect Texas.”
