the one I had returned came with a letter too. Said something about houseplants not being allowed and was returned to sender. It was 2 cuttings so it was considered a houseplant. The idea that it was garden decor was acurate enough as it really is part of the decor. I have actually talked with a customs officer about getting permits. During the chat he mentioned that they get all kinds of grama's cuttings but unfortunately the rule says to send them back. I really do think it depends on the mood of the day and if it were a whole shipment vs a cutting or two.
Bea
Does this forum do a round robin hoya swap?
...and which side of the bed your customs agent got out of that day....lol
I think it does depend on what side of the bed they woke up on, or what kind of day there having.. I have received 3 pkgs. from one of our smuggling members !!! 2 arrived with the contents, and one did not.
Also I agree they may start beefing up security with the recent terrorist threat...
I really enjoyed the hoya trade last year. In fact, that's what started me on my obsession, and as a bonus, I gained a friend. I'm tempted to join this year but all my hoyas that aren't carnosas are just babies. I just can't bring myself to cut off their first and only vines. So I hope it all goes well so that everyone will want to have another secret hoya trade next year when I'll have some cool stuff to trade. It will still be fun to read the excited posts when everyone starts receiving their parcels.
Sandy
Sandy, I don't think anyone on this forum will want you to be left out of this. Do you already have an obovata by chance?
Well that's very nice of you to say Ann but it's okay really. No I don't have an obovata. In fact I'll have to go look that one up. lol
Sandy
Sandy - there are those that can and those that can't...and we have all been there and WILL be there again sometime. Sending you a dmail...
Carol
Please count me in - thanks - Karen
I would like to participate in the swap again too.
Sandy
Me too!
I've sent cuttings to Donna in Canada a couple of times....I think it also depends on the size/weight of the package, plus the contents need to be packed very securely.....no rattlin' around within.
The smaller the package...the better it's chance of arriving at it's destination.