2021 Tree Seedling sales now open

December 11, 2020 – Kawartha Conservation’s 2021 Tree Seedling sale is now open with a great selection of Evergreens, deciduous trees  and shrubs.  The program offers native species as well as advancing species which aren't currently found naturally in the Kawartha Watershed, but they are migrating from the South as the climate warms and are becoming more suitable in the Kawartha watershed. 

“This is a great program for watershed property owners to purchase tree seedlings at a great price in bulk to benefit their properties,” explained Kristie Virgoe, Director, Stewardship and Conservation Lands. “This is a popular, annual sale which helps support our Stewardship programming, but has a tremendous impact on our environment right across our watershed.

For watershed residents with open areas, coniferous trees (evergreens) are usually the easiest to grow, in area with lots of sun and wind exposure. It is recommended if you are planting a large number of trees, that you plant 70-80% coniferous trees. 

Deciduous trees, or trees that lose their leaves in the fall, are generally less hardy during the seedling stage, and prefer areas of low exposure. An already forested area is a great place to plant additional deciduous seedlings. With extra care and protection, they can be nurtured to become large, beautiful shade trees. 

Shrubs, typically shorter than trees, off offer a great way to provide diversity and habitat on your property. They are an option where hydro wires and other overhead utilities are a concern. 

“Trees and shrubs provide so many benefits to landowners and our community as a whole,” explained Stewardship Outreach Technician, . “Whether it’s improving air quality, providing and supporting wildlife habitat, or benefiting surface and ground water quality, planting seedlings will pay huge dividends in a number of ways.”

New forest growth can help mitigate climate change by creating carbon sinks that absorb more carbon than they release.  Landowners can contribute to the health of our watershed by establishing and managing forest cover through our low-cost seedling sale.

Tree seedling orders will be available for pick-up at the Kawartha Conservation administrative office at Ken Reid Conservation Area on April 30 and May 1.

Tree seedlings can be ordered and paid for online by visiting our online order form.

The Online site can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week so watershed residents can browse the available seedlings and place their order when it is convenient for them.

The deadline for Tree Seedling orders is March 31.