Irish public warned of plant health risks as EU campaign launches

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD and Ireland’s chief plant health officer, Louise Byrne at the Backweston Laboratory Campus, Co. Kildare for the launch of the 2026 #PlantHealth4Life campaign

The campaign highlights the importance of plant health for the horticulture sector and the role growers, retailers and consumers can play in helping prevent the spread of harmful pests and diseases

Horticulture

20 May 2026

The #PlantHealth4Life campaign, led by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Commission, and supported in Ireland by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, has recently been launched, warning the public that everyday actions – from bringing plants home from holidays to buying online – could put plant health, food supply and biodiversity at risk.

In its fourth and final year, the campaign continues to raise awareness of plant health risks and their direct link to the economy, local communities and food safety across Europe.

“We often think of plant health as something distant, but it starts in our own gardens and green spaces. The choices we make, what we plant, where we buy from, how we care for our gardens, all have a real impact. This campaign is a reminder that small, informed actions by many people can make a big difference for plant health, biodiversity and climate resilience,” Diarmuid Gavin, garden designer and UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Goodwill ambassador for Ireland, said.

Holidaymakers are urged not to bring plants, cuttings, fruit or vegetables home when travelling outside the EU, as these may harbour harmful pests or diseases.

Gardeners are encouraged to choose local plant species, reduce reliance on pesticides and check the “plant passport” on new plants, confirming they are free from harmful pests and disease.

Parents and teachers are also encouraged to raise awareness of plant health among children.

“Protecting plant health is something everyone can contribute to. Simple steps like sourcing plants responsibly, avoiding bringing plants and seeds home from abroad, and staying alert to signs of pests and diseases, can have a significant impact. By working together and staying informed, we can help protect Ireland’s environment, food systems and biodiversity,” Ms Louise Byrne, Ireland’s chief plant health officer, said.

This final year builds on growing awareness across Europe, with 33 countries now involved, and a renewed focus on turning knowledge into action – empowering individuals, families, gardeners and travellers to play their part.

#PlantHealth4Life is a multi-year campaign developed at the request of the European Commission. It is based on an in-depth analysis of citizen perceptions and behaviour with respect to plant health across the EU.

To discover how to safeguard plant health visit the website.