The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) is set to commence its annual tree seedling sale on Tuesday, July 1. The NCFS Nursery Program produces approximately 10 million seedlings each year, sufficient to cover about 18,700 acres of land with native and genetically improved tree species.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler highlighted the importance of the program: “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. These affordable tree seedlings help keep our forestlands growing, thriving and beautiful. Traditionally, seedling inventory goes quickly, so I encourage folks not to hesitate.”
A variety of conifer and hardwood seedlings are available for purchase in different quantities. Genetically improved stock includes Fraser fir, loblolly, longleaf, shortleaf, Eastern white pine, and Virginia pine. These enhanced varieties offer benefits such as better growth volume, disease resistance, and straightness. Customers can learn more about specific species by consulting NCFS Nursery staff or checking the ordering website or catalogs.
Orders can be placed through several methods: online at www.buynctrees.com; by phone at either 1-888-NCTREES (1-888-628-7337) or 919-731-7988; or via mail using the order form from the FY25-26 Nursery Seedling Catalog sent to Seedling Coordinator at Claridge Nursery Road in Goldsboro.
A new online catalog will soon be available on the NCFS website. Local offices will also have physical catalogs starting in July. These resources provide details on species types, quantities available for order, ideal planting locations, and uses such as wildlife benefit or timber production.
Payment options include check, money order, Mastercard, and Visa. Most containerized seedlings are ready from October through March; bare root options are available from January through March. Orders can be shipped statewide for a fee or picked up at designated nurseries.
For planting advice or additional information on local resources, customers should contact their local NCFS county ranger. Contact details for county offices and nursery locations are accessible via www.ncforestservice.gov/contacts.
