News

Forest Service taking orders for tree seedlings

By Lightning Reports, Published: June 30, 2025

The N.C. Forest Service is currently accepting orders in its annual tree seedling sale.

With an average annual production of 10 million seedlings, the NCFS Nursery Program produces enough native and genetically improved tree seedlings to plant roughly 18,700 acres of land.

“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.”

Quality conifer and hardwood seedlings are available for purchase in a range of quantities. Genetically improved stock is available for Fraser fir, loblolly, longleaf, shortleaf, Eastern white pine and Virginia pine. These seedlings offer better volume growth, tree form, disease resistance, straightness, and other characteristics needed to produce beautiful Christmas trees, healthy woodlands and quality forest products. Customers interested in knowing more about specific tree species and available inventory can speak with NCFS Nursery staff, as well as reference the ordering website or seedling catalogs.

Tree seedlings can be ordered from the online seedling store at www.buynctrees.com. Tree seedlings can also be ordered by phone at 1-888-NCTREES (1-888-628-7337) or 919-731-7988. A user-friendly online catalog will soon be available at https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/nursery-tree-improvement-program. Seedling catalogs are also available at local NCFS offices beginning in July. In the catalog landowners can find information about the types of tree species, quantities and cost to order. Each species description includes information about ideal planting locations and whether a species is typically used to benefit wildlife, restore forest habitats or as marketable timber. Accepted methods of payment are check, money order, Mastercard and Visa.