A Challenge for UK Horticulture: Dealing with Thorny Issues

Plants imported from Europe now face tighter post-Brexit checks, leading to delays and extra costs for importers in the UK. Yuccas from Spain, rhododendrons from Germany, and Dutch hazelnut trees are among the items that will undergo stricter border inspections starting Tuesday.

At Provender nursery in Swanley, southeast England, production and biosecurity manager Stuart Tickner is diligently inspecting plants to ensure they are disease-free. General manager Richard McKenna explains the additional costs and potential damages that could occur if shipments are delayed.

The horticulture sector in the UK is already feeling the impact of Brexit, with the government deeming plants as high-risk items for importing diseases and pests. The introduction of physical checks at UK ports for medium and high-risk goods will further complicate the import process.

Concerns about shortages and price rises are looming, with companies like Bloom & Wild anticipating additional administration fees and potential wastage due to delays in inspections. The new regulations could lead to inflationary pressures and higher costs for consumers.

To mitigate the risks associated with the new rules, Provender is constructing a new building with a control point for on-site inspections. This move aims to reduce delays and damages to imported plants, but comes with a hefty price tag of £100,000.

As the UK adjusts to post-Brexit regulations, businesses in the horticulture sector are bracing for the financial implications and logistical challenges that lie ahead. The future of plant imports from Europe remains uncertain, with stakeholders closely monitoring the evolving situation.