Deadline nearing for native tree orders

A large tree for shade on a hot summer day, a compact street tree near the sidewalk, or a shrub to provide screening or wildlife habitat? The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District native tree sale has you covered for all of your tree needs. With 32 species available, there is the perfect tree or shrub for your property.

All offerings are $28 each and will arrive in three-gallon containers and be approximately three to five feet tall at delivery. A five-gallon Arborvitae is available for $40. Pre-orders are required and are due Sept. 28. Trees can be picked up from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 5 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds Llama Barn. Order forms and online ordering are available at hamiltonswcd.org.

This tree sale focuses on species native to Indiana. Native species are those that have been growing in Indiana since before English settlement. These types of trees are uniquely suited to local soils and weather, but most importantly, they are uniquely suited to support local wildlife – especially birds, insects and other pollinators. Three-gallon trees are a great choice as they are easy to maneuver and plant, economical and will grow quickly.

In addition to native trees, 15-gallon watering bags are also available in this year’s sale. The tree sale is the district’s largest annual fundraiser. All proceeds go back into conservation education and the district’s cost share program.