I think have mentioned this before, but I have a daughter who lives in Daytona. At the large flea market there, and in numerous places along I-95, they sell citrus trees. There is no notice on the plants or posted in the nursery. (or at least not since I was last there less than 6 months ago) Many unsuspecting tourists purchase trees at such places, and take them out of state. There can be no real disease control unless the problem is addressed at the retail level.

The place to put the tags on is at the nursery, and, like the tags found on matresses, no one should be able to remove them except the end user. Retailers can be required by law to post notice about the movement of citrus. I am sure nurseries are now inspected on a regular basis, so the state ag inspector could be responsible for ensuring compliance. As for growers in other states, the same rules could apply as determined by USDA.

As for Florida's requirements, regarding bringing citrus plants into the state, I believe this is a state requirement, not a USDA rule. It is up to Florida to enforce their own rules. I can see where, as Skeet says, the rule has merit. There are many places in Florida that are disease free, and it is important that they remain so. If it becomes a USDA requirement to post notice, it can be made to happen.

Ned