AS Valentine's Day is fast approaching, be careful about what you send/take to U.S.A. Flowers are a popular item that yearn to cross the US border during this season, but not really popular with the US Customs.

While flowers such as roses, carnations and daisies are allowed and welcome, flowers such as mums, gladiolus and some greenery are prohibited. Agriculture commodities must be inspected by CBP agriculture specialists to prevent the entry of foreign plant pests and diseases into the United States.

Although chocolate-covered strawberries are perfectly fine to cross, there are some other favourites to avoid. Many fruits such as melons, berries, pineapples and bananas are admissible, but most citrus is prohibited. Some commonly seized fruits are apples, oranges, mangos, guavas and pears.

"The most important thing to remember when entering the U.S. is always to declare what you are bringing so that you avoid further delays and/or penalties," says a Customs officer.