That packet of rare blue tomatoes or rainbow-colored roses may cost only $4.99, but wasting five dollars isn’t the biggest risk when buying questionable seeds online. You could spend weeks tending empty pots, receive something completely different from what was advertised, or unknowingly order seeds that don’t comply with U.S. import requirements. Online marketplaces and social media have made unusual varieties easier to find, but they’ve also made it easier for questionable sellers to put convincing photos in front of thousands of gardeners. Fortunately, there are warning signs that can help you identify an online seed seller scam before entering your payment information. Here are five red flags worth investigating before those bargain seeds go into your cart.
