Order your tree and shrub seedlings

by Daviess County Conservation Agent Jade Wright

Once again, it is time to get in your 2002 order for tree and shrub seedlings from the Missouri Department of Conservation nursery. The seedlings are bare root, one, two, or three years old, depending on the species. They are available in single species bundles of 25 seedlings for use in Missouri. For smaller plantings where a variety of species are needed, four special bundles are available.

The seedling bundles are reasonably priced and range from $3 to $15 per bundle of 25. Sales tax of 4.725% will be added to all bills unless you furnish, at the time of your order, a tax exemption certificate. A handling charge of $5 is added to each order. Holders of the Missouri Conservation Heritage Card can receive a 15% discount up to $20 off their seedling purchases. Payments are not expected at the time of the order, you will be billed later. Payments may be made using a check, money order, MasterCard or Visa.

As mentioned earlier, four special bundles are available for areas where a variety of seedlings are needed. The Conservation Bundle is recommended for people who want to add a mix of trees and shrubs to their property. The Wildlife Cover Bundle will improve habitat and food sources for a number of Missouri wildlife species. The Extra-Large Nut Tree Bundle is made up of pecan and walnut that are larger than the normal stock size. The Quail Cover Bundle provides plants for quail food and cover. The contents of these special bundles are preselected by the nursery, and no substitutes can be made.

If you know you want some trees but are not a forestry expert, don’t sweat it! The seedling order form gives you information on the common uses, wildlife benefits, size, and other important information for each species available. However, having said that, if you are going to undertake an extensive planting project give your local forester a call at (660)646-6122. For more information on planting, care, and uses of seedlings write to: Missouri Department of Conservation, PO Box 180, Jefferson City MO 65102-0180 and ask for the following publications: Missouri Conservation Trees and Shrubs – Free; Missouri Urban Trees – Free; Shrubs and Woody Vines of Missouri – Soft Cover $17.70, Hard Cover $20.88 or check our web site at: www.conservation.state.mo.us.

To order your trees you will need a seedling order form. You can get an order form by calling or stopping by the St. Joseph Regional Office at (816)271-3100. After placing your order you will be notified by postcard approximately one week before the date your order will be shipped. Most shipped orders arrive within 48 hours of leaving the nursery; however this cannot be guaranteed. All trees will be shipped by May 15, 2002, unless other arrangements have been made.