As previously reported in past newsletters, the UK Plant Health Service intercepted and destroyed several consignments of ornamental plants due to the presence of Pochazia shantungensis, a small planthopper insect resembling a moth. These actions were taken out of concern that the species could pose a phytosanitary threat if introduced into the UK.

The interceptions raised significant concern within the Pistoia nursery district in Italy, one of the UK’s key suppliers of ornamental plants.

However, the UK government has now published the results of its pest risk analysis, concluding that the establishment of Pochazia shantungensis in the UK is unlikely. The assessment cited the UK’s cool summer climate and the absence of suitable woody host plants as primary reasons for this determination.

The full risk assessment is available on the UK DEFRA Plant Health Portal:
https://planthealthportal.defra.gov.uk/pests-and-diseases/pest-risk-analyses/

These findings are expected to lead to the lifting of import restrictions on plants showing symptoms of Pochazia presence.

Pending official communication from the UK Plant Health Service, the operational protocol between the Italian Regional Plant Health Service (SFR) and professional nurseries remains in place. This protocol aims to prevent the presence of Pochazia shantungensis in plant shipments destined for the UK.