The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) is set to begin its annual tree seedling sale on July 1. This program produces approximately 10 million seedlings each year, enough to plant around 18,700 acres.
“Our nursery program continues to serve as a stable provider of native forest tree seedlings while ensuring access to a reliable supply of more than 40 tree species for planting throughout North Carolina,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “These affordable tree seedlings help keep our forestlands growing, thriving and beautiful. Traditionally, seedling inventory goes quickly, so I encourage folks not to hesitate.”
The NCFS offers both conifer and hardwood seedlings in various quantities. Genetically improved options are available for several species including Fraser fir, loblolly pine, longleaf pine, shortleaf pine, Eastern white pine, and Virginia pine. These enhanced seedlings are designed for better growth and disease resistance among other traits.
To order seedlings from the NCFS Nursery Program:
– Visit the online store at www.buynctrees.com.
– Call either 1-888-NCTREES (1-888-628-7337) or 919-731-7988.
– Use the order form found in the FY25-26 Nursery Seedling Catalog and mail it to Seedling Coordinator at Claridge Nursery Road in Goldsboro.
A new online catalog will soon be accessible at www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/nursery-tree-improvement-program. Local NCFS offices will also have catalogs starting in July. The catalog provides details about tree species types, costs, and ideal planting conditions.
Payment methods include check, money order, Mastercard, and Visa. Most containerized seedlings are used between October and March; bare root varieties are used from January through March. Orders can be shipped statewide or picked up at designated locations.
For planting guidance or additional information on local resources, customers can contact their county ranger via the NCFS website.
