Official highlights importance of Phytosanitary certificate against plant pests when buying saplings

The director of the Office of Preparation and Compilation of Regulations, Standards, and Control Programs of the Plant Protection Organization of Iran emphasized the importance of requesting a phytosanitary certificate when buying saplings in spring.

Fatemeh Movahed-Khah said that one of the main reasons for the spread of plant pests and diseases is the movement of any infected plant propagative material.

It is recommended that buyers of saplings in the New Year request a phytosanitary certificate from sellers when making a purchase, she said.

Movahed-Khah added that gardeners who buy saplings without knowing their health status unknowingly cause the spread of pests and diseases, especially quarantine pests and diseases.

“This can affect the orchards in the region and lead to the destruction of orchards and even crops. Therefore, it is essential to request a phytosanitary certificate from sellers when making a purchase to ensure the health of the saplings.”

The Phytosanitary Certificate is used to certify that the domestic plants or plant products have been inspected according to appropriate procedures, and they are considered to be free from quarantine pests, practically free from other injurious pests.