Tree & Shrub Seedlings Available for Wildlife Habitat

The Pennsylvania Game Commission's (PGC) Howard Nursery is again selling tree and shrub seedlings. Most of the seedlings are either evergreen trees or deciduous shrubs with wildlife habitat potential. There is no requirement that a landowner must open his land for public hunting.

They are accepting orders as of 1/4/10. To find out what they are selling and order forms, go to the PGC's  Howard Nursery web page.

Seedlings are sold in Units of 25 seedlings of one species. Some species are in short supply so get your order in soon. You can order by phone or by sending in your order, the information you need is on the order form.

Remember, planting the seedlings is just half the job. Grass and other competing vegetation must be controlled for at least two years to get a satisfactory survival rate. Also don't forget about our furry friends.  Deer and rodents can make a significant impact on survival. Most trees and shrub will need protection from wildlife; tree shelters, fencing, etc.  Do yourself and the seedlings a favor and plant fewer seedlings with a lot of care. Please do not plant seedlings in the middle of the forest.  Shade and root competition from existing trees will be too much for them, ending in a very poor survival rate.

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and its partners put together an excellent tree planting guide entitled: Landowner Guide to Buffer Success.  Don't let the name fool you, tt is a comprehensive guide broken down by season to show exactly how to make your planting project a success.  The material applies to most any planting job, not just those along stream buffers.