Environment DEC
From the March 2003 issue
Tree and Shrub Seedlings for Sale
DEC's annual sale of tree and shrub seedlings from the Saratoga Tree Nursery has begun and will run through May. In addition to the sale, DEC will donate seedlings to New York State schools and school-sponsored organizations whose applications are received by March 27.
More than 35 species of conifer, hardwood and shrub seedlings, including many that are native to the state, are available for purchase. The nursery's current annual production is 2.5 million seedlings. These seedlings are offered to the public each year at a low cost to encourage planting that will enhance the environment by improving wildlife habitat, curbing soil erosion, providing windbreaks and beautifying the landscape. Trees also improve air quality by absorbing airborne compounds that can be harmful to humans.
The nursery program was established in
1902 and has provided more than 1.6 billion
seedlings for conservation planting
Soil type and landowner objectives are important to consider when selecting seedlings. Most conifers survive well in New York State, but hardwoods often require more maintenance. Landowners who need planting advice can contact their nearest DEC regional office, private forestry consultant or the Saratoga Tree Nursery at (518) 581-1439.
Ordering Seedlings
To order seedlings or a copy of the informative publication Trees and Shrubs, call the Saratoga Tree Nursery Ordering Center between 8 AM and 5 PM weekdays at (518) 587-1120. Submit mail orders for seedlings to: Saratoga Tree Nursery, 2369 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
The minimum purchase is 100 seedlings, except for hardwoods, which can be purchased in units of 25 and in mixed packets, which include between 25 and 100 plants. Customers will be billed for their purchases. Seedlings will be shipped beginning in late April.
Free Seedlings for State's Schools
Seedlings like the one pictured here
are donated to NYS schools
To help New York State schools enhance the environment and teach students how to be active environmental stewards, DEC offers free seedlings to public and private schools and to school-sponsored organizations. Under the School Seedling Program, schools and certain organizations can receive 50 tree seedlings or a mixed packet of 20 wildlife shrubs. The seedlings or shrubs can be planted on school grounds or other community spaces such as parks, roadsides or on the grounds of public buildings. Each seedling needs a growing space of approximately six feet in diameter.
School officials should contact their nearest DEC regional office or the Saratoga Tree Nursery at (518) 581-1439 or (518) 587-1120 to request a School Seedling Application. Please note that completed applications MUST be received at the nursery by March 27, 2003.
