How does your yard look? Are there bare spots? Would a hedge go well over there? How about a shade tree here? The Missouri Department of Conservation is here to help. They know what grows best here and sell seedlings at a fraction of the cost. Plus, they offer knowledgeable workers to guide you in your planting decisions.
What Is This?
MDC’s George O. White State Forest Nursery offers a variety of low-cost native tree and shrub seedlings for sale. These plants can be used for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, wildlife food and cover, and other purposes.
What Are They Selling?
The nursery supplies mainly one-year-old, bare-root seedlings with sizes varying by species. Seedling varieties include pine, bald cypress, cottonwood, black walnut, hickory, oak, pecan, persimmon, river birch, maple, willow, sycamore, blackberry, buttonbush, hazelnut, redbud, ninebark, elderberry, sumac, wild plum, witch hazel, and others. It is best to order early to ensure your choice will be available.
Even if a species is listed as “sold out,” customers can still order seedlings. This is because other orders may be canceled, freeing up inventory. Customers will not be charged for seedlings unless they are available to ship.
How Many Do I Have To Order?
Seedlings are sold in bundles of 10 or increments of 25 per species. Prices range from 40 cents to $1.17 per seedling. Sales tax will be added to orders unless tax-exempt. Each order has a shipping fee and a $9 handling charge. However, you are welcome to pick up the order in Licking. If you have a conservation ID number, you receive a 15% discount of up to $20 off seedling orders. Orders will be shipped from February through May.
Orders can be placed beginning Sept. 3 through April 15, 2025. Place orders online here.
So remember that native trees and shrubs can help improve wildlife habitat and conservation while improving the appearance and value of private property.
