Return Policy Question?

[Jo Ann]

This is for all you folks who shop for Orchids over the web I have a question concerning a return policy. I have ordered other plants over the net before and I don’t remember reading that it was this complicated to return a plant. Is it because the nursery is in Hawaii? What is a PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATE and why should I have to get it? I like this vendors prices but I don’t want to end up sorry if I have to return something. If anybody has any input I would appreciate it. Thanks

Exotic Orchids of Maui - Shipping Info

[cb977]

It seems to be a export/import matter. In this particular case, I've ordered many plants from EOoM and have never felt the need to return anything. Be aware of the plant size when ordering. Unless the plant is listed as BS or NBS, it will be a seedling.

[Jo Ann]

Thanks Sue I feel a more confident now….

[cb977]

Originally Posted by Jo Ann

Thanks Sue I feel a more confident now….

Did you see this?

Never ordered from Exotic Orchids of Maui?

[Jo Ann]

Sue thanks again….whoopieee!!!!!....I’m always looking for discounts….yeaaaa!!!!.........

[quiltergal]

Joann, you will need a phyto to return a plant to HI. You need one to take it out of HI also. I've had plants shipped from the islands and also carried some home on the plane. The ones I carried home had to be in a plastic bag that is sealed shut with the phyto stamp on the label. The bag is breathable. If you open it the plant will be confiscated at Ag inspection and thrown in the trash. Probably more than you needed to know about getting plants from HI.

For what it's worth I've been to EOOM's greenhouse, and their plants all look nice and healty. It's run by very nice people. If you're unsure ask lots of questions before ordering. They're very good about responding.

Forgot to say the phyto cert is to guarantee no nematodes and/or other creepy crawlies not native to the mainland, and vice versa.

[Ross]

Just as a clarification, the plants simply have to have what is known locally as an "Ag stamp" on the sealed box. All tourists will leave Hawaii via the Ag station and any box pre-sealed and with the proper Ag stamp will go through fine. On the way into Hawaii on the plane, they will pass out Ag papers where you will declare any plants, pets, etc. It's a in-out inspection to be sure. Hope this clarifies things. Phyto has never been mentioned to me, but I know where Ag is coming from as a retiree from USDA.

[kavanaru]

wow... did not know you would need phytosanitary permits within USA... that's normally a certificate that is required between countries (EU union is considered in this case like being one country)

[quiltergal]

Ross I think the Ag stamp is the phyto cert. See the return policy from their website. The bold is mine.

If you are not satisfied with the plants you have received, please contact us within 48 hours of receipt. Plants will need to be sent back in their original wrapping, in their original box, packed to ensure that no damage will occur during transit. A phytosanitary certificate must be issued by your state agriculture department and attached to the box. We will forward you a copy of our import permit with directions. Upon their satisfactory return, a credit will be issued for the plants ordered. No further credits for the phytosanitary certificate or the cost of return shipping will be issued.