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Kentucky · Direct-to-Consumer Compliance

Plants & Flowers

Nursery stock needs a license from the Office of the State Entomologist

Registration Required
Dec 31Dealer certificate expiration
OSEUniversity of Kentucky licenses nurseries
AnnualNursery inspections
CertifiedDealers buy certified stock

What's Covered / Needs a Different Path

What's Covered

  • Licensed nurseries and dealers selling inspected stock
  • Dealers sourcing from certified nurseries with inspection certificates

Needs a Different Path

  • Selling trees, shrubs and perennials without a license
  • Shipping out of state without phytosanitary documents
  • Cut flowers and annuals not yet confirmed

Compliance Steps

A

License

Apply annually with the State Entomologist.

B

Source

Buy from certified nurseries.

C

Display

Post the license at each location.

Quick Reference

ItemRuleRegulator
Nursery dealerAnnual license; expires Dec 31UK OSE
NurseryYearly inspectionUK OSE
Interstate shippingPhytosanitary certificateUK OSE / USDA
Multiple sitesSeparate license eachUK OSE

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license for vegetable starts?

Ask the OSE.

Can I sell at a market?

With a license, yes.

What about seeds?

Seed sales are separate.

Printable Checklist