How to Import Plants to Germany

Import Live Plants to Germany

In recent years, Germany has witnessed a significant surge in demand for tropical and exotic plants, fueled by the booming interest in indoor gardening, rare plant collecting, and biophilic interior design.

From lush aroids like Monstera and Anthurium to vibrant Aglaonema and delicate Hoya, plant lovers across Germany are seeking new and unique botanical treasures to add to their collections.

This rising trend isn’t just limited to hobbyists. Professional plant nurseries, landscape designers, online plant shops, and resellers are also turning to international suppliers—particularly in Indonesia, Thailand, South America, and Africa—to meet consumer demands that can’t always be fulfilled locally.

For many, importing directly from the source offers benefits such as better variety, larger plants, and more competitive prices.

However, importing plants to Germany is not as simple as placing an online order. Since plants can carry pests and diseases that pose a threat to native flora and agriculture, the German government enforces strict import regulations in line with EU Plant Health laws.

To import plants legally and successfully, it’s essential to understand the documentation requirements, quarantine protocols, customs procedures, and best practices involved in the process.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of importing plants into Germany in 2025—whether you're an individual collector, a growing plant shop, or a wholesaler. You’ll learn about:

• Legal requirements like phytosanitary certificates and CITES documentation
• How to choose a trustworthy plant exporter
• The right way to ship and package plants internationally
• What to expect during customs clearance in Germany
• Tips to avoid common mistakes that lead to delays or confiscations

Whether you're importing a single rare plant or planning to start a plant import business, this article will help you navigate the process with confidence and compliance.

Can You Import Plants to Germany?

Before you dive into sourcing plants from tropical suppliers or placing an order with an overseas nursery, you need to understand one critical thing: yes, it is legal to import plants into Germany, but only if you follow the correct procedures outlined by German and European Union regulations.

Germany, as a member of the European Union, adheres to the EU Plant Health Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2016/2031), which aims to prevent the introduction and spread of plant pests and diseases within the EU.

This means that all plant imports—whether for personal use or commercial resale—must meet strict health and documentation standards.

Who Can Import Plants into Germany?

• Individuals (private importers): Yes, even hobbyists or plant collectors can import plants into Germany for personal use, as long as all phytosanitary and customs requirements are met.
• Businesses: Nurseries, online shops, landscapers, and wholesalers can import plants more freely, often at scale, with added registration requirements.

Important: Even a single plant ordered online from a non-EU country must comply with all import laws.

Are There Plants You Cannot Import?

Yes, some plants are prohibited or restricted due to their potential to introduce harmful pests, bacteria, or fungi. These include:

• Plants listed as quarantine pests under the EU Plant Health Regulation
• Certain soil-attached plants (since soil can carry pests)
• Plants protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) unless accompanied by a proper permit

You can check the EU’s official plant quarantine list and the CITES database to verify whether your plant species is allowed for import.

Key Authorities Regulating Plant Imports to Germany

• Zoll (German Customs): Responsible for border control and enforcing import restrictions.
• BVL (Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety): Ensures compliance with plant health regulations in Germany.
• European Commission - DG SANTE: Oversees EU-wide plant health laws and updates the list of regulated species.
  

Most Common Countries Exporting Plants to Germany

Germany regularly imports tropical plants from:

• Indonesia – Aroids like Anthurium, Hoya, Orchids, Philodendron, Scindapsus, Syngonium, Aglaonema and Alocasia
• Thailand – Various variegated tropical plants
• Ecuador – Cloud forest plants, rare Anthuriums
• Colombia & Peru – Exotic foliage and trailing plants
• Kenya & Tanzania – Succulents and flowering ornamentals

Each country may have different export standards, so it's important to work with experienced, compliant exporters.

Risks of Illegal or Improper Plant Import

Importing plants without the proper documentation can lead to:

• Confiscation or destruction of the shipment by customs
• Fines or penalties
• Introduction of invasive pests or diseases (which can lead to more regulation and bans for everyone)

That’s why understanding and following the legal framework is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting biodiversity and ensuring continued access to international plants.

Key Requirements Before You Import

Importing plants into Germany is more than just ordering from a nursery abroad and waiting for your delivery. 

There are critical legal and logistical requirements you must meet to ensure your shipment clears customs and arrives safely. 

This section explains the essential documents and protocols you need to comply with German and EU plant import laws.

a. Phytosanitary Certificate (Mandatory)

The phytosanitary certificate is the most crucial document when importing live plants from outside the EU.

It serves as official proof that the plants have been inspected by the plant health authority in the exporting country and are free from pests, diseases, and soil contaminants.

What It Includes:

• Botanical name and quantity of the plants
• Country of origin
• Name of the exporter and importer
• Inspection date and signature from the local plant protection organization
• Statement confirming the plants meet import requirements of the EU

Where to Get It:

• Only the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of the exporting country can issue it.

For example, in Indonesia, this is the Badan Karantina Pertanian (Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency).

When Is It Required?

• Always, for live plants, rooted cuttings, and sometimes even seeds or plant parts.
• Must be original, accompany the shipment, and be visible on the box.

Without a valid phytosanitary certificate, your plants will be seized or destroyed by German customs.

b. Import Permit (When Required)

Most personal imports into Germany do not require an import permit, as long as the shipment is:

• Accompanied by a valid phytosanitary certificate
• Not on the list of high-risk plants
• Intended for personal use

However, an import permit may be needed in the following cases:

• If you're importing certain high-risk species or plants with soil
• If you're a business importer, especially bringing in large or recurring shipments
• If the plants are from a country with a known pest outbreak

Where to Apply:

• Through Germany’s Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) or the appropriate local phytosanitary authority
• The application process may take several weeks, so plan ahead

c. CITES Certificate (for Protected Species)

If you are importing rare or endangered plant species that are listed under the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) agreement, you need to secure a CITES permit in addition to the phytosanitary certificate.

Common tropical houseplants that may require CITES documentation:

• Certain orchids (Orchidaceae)
• Wild-collected Nepenthes (pitcher plants)
• Some cycads, cacti, and tree ferns

Steps:

1. Exporter must apply for a CITES export permit from their country's CITES authority
2. Importer (you) may also need an import permit from the German CITES authority
3. Both documents must travel with the shipment

d. Quarantine and Inspection in Germany

All imported plant shipments entering Germany from outside the EU are subject to customs inspection and may be quarantined if needed.

This is to confirm that no pests or diseases are present, even if the documentation is in order.

What Happens During Inspection:

• German customs may open the package to inspect the plants
• If pests are found or documents are missing, your plants may:
• Be quarantined
• Be treated (fumigation, pesticide)
• Be rejected or destroyed

Tips to Pass Inspection:

• Make sure all documents are clearly attached and legible
• Clean and prepare plants properly (e.g., remove soil)
• Communicate with your supplier to ensure packaging complies with EU regulations

Tip: Always track your shipment and be ready to respond to customs inquiries promptly to avoid delays or mishandling.

Meeting these requirements not only ensures compliance with the law, but also protects Germany’s ecosystem and your investment.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to choose a reliable exporter or supplier who can help you meet these standards with confidence.

4. Choosing the Right Exporter or Supplier

Selecting a reliable, experienced plant exporter is one of the most important steps in successfully importing plants to Germany. A professional exporter will not only provide you with healthy, high-quality plants but will also ensure that your shipment meets all legal, logistical, and phytosanitary requirements. This significantly reduces your risk of customs issues, delays, or plant loss.

In this section, we’ll explain how to find a trustworthy plant supplier, what red flags to watch out for, and the questions you should always ask before placing an order.

Why Your Exporter Matters

Your exporter is responsible for:

• Sourcing and preparing the plants
• Ensuring the plants are free from pests and disease
• Obtaining the phytosanitary certificate and other necessary documents (e.g., CITES permit)
• Packaging the plants properly for international travel
• Providing accurate invoices and labels for customs clearance

An exporter who cuts corners or lacks experience with EU-bound shipments could cause:

• Customs rejection
• Damage or death of the plants during transit
• Fines or delays
• Legal problems if protected species are mishandled

How to Choose a Trustworthy Plant Exporter

1. Look for Export Certification and Experience

• Check that the seller is registered with their country’s agricultural export authority.
• Ask how long they’ve been exporting to the EU or Germany specifically.
• Prefer suppliers with experience shipping to Europe (the EU has stricter plant import laws than most countries).

2. Verify Their Paperwork Process

Ask these key questions:

• “Can you provide an official phytosanitary certificate with every shipment?”
• “Do you offer CITES documentation if needed?”
• “Are the plants cleaned and prepared according to EU import standards?”

A good exporter should not hesitate to explain their process or share document samples.

3. Read Reviews or Ask for References

• Look for testimonials or reviews from European customers.
• Ask for the Instagram, Facebook, or Etsy profile of the seller and check their customer interactions.
• If you’re importing a large shipment, ask to speak with a past buyer.

4. Review Their Plant Selection and Expertise

Choose a seller that:

• Offers established, healthy, rooted plants
• Can clearly identify each plant by scientific name (important for phytosanitary and customs documentation)
• Understands which plants are allowed or restricted by CITES or EU regulations

5. Assess Their Communication and Responsiveness

• Are they easy to reach via email, WhatsApp, or Instagram?
• Do they speak English or German fluently enough to understand compliance questions?
• How fast do they respond to inquiries or issues?

Packaging and Shipping Standards

An experienced plant exporter will:

• Use breathable and protective packaging for long-distance travel
• Remove soil to meet EU requirements (plants are often shipped bare root or in sphagnum moss)
• Clearly label the box as containing “Live Plants”
• Attach all relevant documents on the outside of the package

Poor packaging is one of the top reasons for plant damage in transit. Ask for photos or videos of how they pack their plants before placing a large order.

Recommended Countries with Reputable Exporters

These countries have strong plant export industries and a reputation for compliance:

• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Ecuador and Colombia
• Kenya and Tanzania

When sourcing from these countries, ensure the exporter works closely with local plant quarantine offices and has positive customer feedback from Europe.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Vague or missing information about certificates
• Very low prices that seem too good to be true
• No export license or phytosanitary certificate
• No reviews or photos of previous shipments
• Offering wild-collected protected species without CITES documentation

Remember: If your supplier doesn’t follow the rules, you’re the one who’ll deal with customs and the consequences in Germany.

Choosing the right exporter gives you the confidence that your plants will arrive legally, safely, and in good health. In the next section, we’ll cover how to ship your plants to Germany, including carriers, timelines, packaging tips, and cost expectations.

Shipping Plants to Germany: Methods, Packaging & Costs

Once you’ve chosen a trustworthy exporter and ensured your paperwork is in order, the next step is shipping your plants to Germany. This phase is critical — proper shipping not only affects the survival and condition of your plants, but it also determines how smoothly your package moves through customs.

Let’s explore the best shipping methods, how plants should be packaged for international transit, and what costs and delivery times you can expect when importing plants into Germany.

Best Shipping Methods for Live Plants

Live plants are sensitive to temperature, humidity, and handling. That means shipping needs to be fast, trackable, and reliable. The most commonly used shipping methods for live plants are:

1. EMS (Express Mail Service):

• Widely used by plant exporters in Southeast Asia.
• Offers international tracking and typically reaches Germany in 7–14 days.
• More affordable than private couriers but can sometimes be delayed in customs.

2. DHL Express:

• Considered one of the most reliable couriers for live plants.
• Delivers to Germany in 3–7 days depending on origin country.
• Expedited customs handling, especially with commercial accounts.
• More expensive, but worth it for high-value or rare plants.

3. FedEx International Priority or UPS Worldwide Express:

• Offer fast shipping and detailed tracking.
• Deliveries typically take 2–6 days.
• Suitable for commercial orders or wholesale imports.
• Known for responsive customer service and customs support.

Avoid using regular airmail or standard postal service for live plants — the risks of delay, damage, or loss are significantly higher.

Packaging Standards for Shipping Live Plants

How plants are packaged plays a major role in ensuring they arrive healthy and customs-compliant. Here’s what proper export packaging should look like:

1. Plants Must Be Soil-Free
German customs, like all EU countries, do not allow imports of plants with soil due to pest and pathogen risks. Plants should be shipped:

• Bare root (with roots washed clean of all soil)
• Or wrapped in moist sphagnum moss or perlite, which is allowed as a growing medium

2. Each Plant Must Be Clearly Labeled
Every plant should have a visible label with its scientific name (e.g., Anthurium crystallinum), which should match the names on the phytosanitary certificate. This helps customs officers quickly verify the shipment.

3. Ventilated and Padded Packaging
Exporters should use breathable boxes (often cardboard with air holes) and wrap the plants in:

• Tissue paper or foam netting to protect leaves
• Plastic wrap or plastic sleeves to prevent moisture loss
• Rubber bands to secure roots or stems without damaging them

4. Document Pouch on the Outside
A clear pouch with the following documents must be attached to the outside of the box:

• Phytosanitary certificate (original)
• Invoice or packing list
• CITES documents (if required)

If these documents are missing, the shipment is likely to be confiscated or returned.

5. Seasonal Considerations
If you’re importing during winter or summer, make sure the seller includes:

• Heat packs for cold weather (November–March in Germany)
• Insulation and breathable wrap for hot weather

A good exporter will adjust packaging based on temperature and transit time. Always discuss seasonal risks before shipping.

Shipping Costs: What to Expect

Shipping live plants internationally is more expensive than regular goods due to the need for fast and careful handling. Costs vary based on country of origin, shipping method, plant quantity, and box weight.

It’s important to factor in these costs when budgeting your import, especially if you’re reselling the plants later.

What Happens When the Shipment Arrives in Germany?

Once your package lands at a German entry point (typically Frankfurt, Berlin, or Munich), it goes through:

1. Customs Review:
   The parcel is scanned and flagged as containing live plants.
2. Document Inspection:
   Officials will check the phytosanitary certificate and invoice. If there’s a CITES species, they will inspect the CITES permit as well.
3. Physical Plant Inspection (optional):
   In some cases, customs or plant protection authorities may open the box to inspect the plants. If pests are found or documents are unclear, the plants may be:
• Quarantined
• Treated (e.g., with pesticides or fumigation)
• Rejected or destroyed

4. Delivery to You:
   Once cleared, the courier delivers the box to your address. You may be asked to pay customs duties or VAT on the declared value.

Tip: Always keep your phone and email accessible during this period. Delays often happen when customs can’t reach the importer for clarification.

Returns and Damage

Unfortunately, once plants are confiscated, there is usually no return or refund possible from customs. That’s why it’s critical to:

• Choose exporters with proven shipping experience
• Ensure paperwork is correct
• Monitor the tracking daily during transit

Some sellers offer partial refunds or reshipments if the damage was their fault (e.g., poor packaging or missing documents). Check the refund policy before placing your order.

Summary Tips for Successful Plant Shipping

• Choose DHL or FedEx for faster, safer delivery
• Confirm that the phytosanitary certificate is included
• Ask your exporter for photos of packaging
• Avoid shipping during extreme weather seasons
• Be ready to communicate with German customs or your courier
• Budget for shipping, VAT, and clearance fees

In the next section, we’ll walk you through the customs clearance process in Germany, including what to expect, common problems, and how to make the process faster and smoother.

Caring for Plants After Import: Recovery and Acclimation Tips

Successfully receiving your imported plants in Germany is only half the journey. After spending several days in transit—often in dark, humid, and tightly packed conditions—your plants need careful attention to help them recover, adjust to their new environment, and avoid transplant shock or death.

This section will guide you step by step on how to safely unpack, rehydrate, quarantine, and acclimate tropical plants imported into Germany. These tips are especially important if you are importing rare or delicate species like Anthurium, Philodendron, Alocasia, and Monstera.

Step 1: Unbox Your Plants Carefully

As soon as the box arrives:

• Open it in a warm, well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight.
• Gently remove each plant and its wrapping materials. If sphagnum moss or paper is clinging to the roots, don’t yank it—soak the roots in water first to loosen.
• Look for signs of rot, mold, or physical damage. Some leaf yellowing or minor tearing is normal after shipping, but black mushy spots or foul smells indicate rot.

Avoid cutting off any damaged parts immediately unless they’re clearly dead or diseased. Some damage may be reversible once the plant rehydrates.

Step 2: Rehydrate the Roots

Plants shipped bare-root or wrapped in moss are often dehydrated. To help them recover:

• Soak the root zone in room-temperature distilled or rainwater for 15–30 minutes. Avoid tap water if it’s hard or contains chlorine.
• You can add a few drops of vitamin B1 or a gentle rooting hormone to the water to stimulate root regrowth.
• Gently rinse off any dead or decayed root parts with clean water.

Avoid overhandling the roots—just ensure they’re hydrated and clean before potting.

Step 3: Quarantine New Arrivals

Imported plants may carry pests like spider mites, thrips, or fungus gnats that are not immediately visible. It’s critical to quarantine all new plants for at least 2–3 weeks before placing them near your other houseplants.

During quarantine:

• Keep plants in a separate room or area with good airflow and light.
• Check daily for pests, mold, or unusual growth.
• Use yellow sticky traps to detect flying insects.
• Optionally spray the plant with a neem oil or insecticidal soap solution to prevent pest outbreaks.

This quarantine phase protects your existing collection and helps the new plant adapt gradually.

Step 4: Potting or Propagating

After the quarantine or when the plant looks stable, you can pot it up:

• Use well-draining soil suitable for the plant type. For aroids like Philodendron or Anthurium, a mix of coco husk, perlite, orchid bark, and peat works well.
• Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root mass. Too much space can lead to overwatering.
• Avoid fertilizing for the first 2–3 weeks. The plant is in recovery mode and can be easily burned by nutrients.

If the roots are weak, you may instead want to place the plant in water or sphagnum moss temporarily to encourage regrowth before transitioning to soil.

Step 5: Acclimate to Your Environment

Imported plants were likely grown in a warm, tropical greenhouse environment. Germany’s climate—especially during colder months—can be a shock. To help the plant adjust:

• Keep temperatures between 20–26°C indoors, avoiding drafts or sudden cold air.
• Maintain high humidity (60–80%) using a humidifier or placing the plant in a grow tent or humidity box.
• Provide bright, indirect light for 8–12 hours per day. Use grow lights if natural light is limited during winter.
• Avoid direct sun for the first few weeks, as leaves may burn.

Observe your plant daily. If it droops or wilts, adjust humidity or reduce light intensity. New leaf growth or root formation is a sign that it is acclimating well.

Step 6: Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Even after quarantine, some issues can emerge later. Keep a close eye for:

• Spider mites (tiny dots and webs)
• Thrips (shiny black specks, deformed new growth)
• Fungal leaf spots (yellowing or brown patches)
• Root rot (mushy roots and foul smell)

If you see signs of pests

• Isolate the plant immediately
• Use organic or chemical treatments depending on severity
• Sanitize your tools and wash your hands after handling the infected plant

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing major outbreaks.

Step 7: Be Patient and Let the Plant Rest

Post-shipping recovery is stressful for any plant. Many tropicals will drop older leaves, stop growing temporarily, or appear dull. Don’t panic.

• Resist the urge to repot repeatedly or move the plant around too much.
• Limit watering to when the soil is nearly dry (use a moisture meter if unsure).
• Allow the plant at least 4–8 weeks to begin active growth again.

Remember: imported plants often take 1–3 months to fully acclimate and begin thriving in their new home.

Summary: The Key to Healthy Imports

• Unpack gently and inspect for damage or disease
• Rehydrate roots carefully before potting
• Quarantine all new plants to protect your collection
• Acclimate slowly to German indoor conditions
• Monitor pests, adjust humidity and light levels
• Be patient, and give your plant time to adjust

Following these care steps will significantly increase your success rate with imported plants and protect the rest of your indoor jungle.