Affordable and Attractive Trees Available for Public Planting

Tree-Mendous Maryland Orders Being Accepted; More Selections and Sizes Available

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources aims to expand tree cover on public lands across the state, offering affordable and attractive trees for planting on community lands and open space through its Tree-Mendous Maryland program.

New this year, the department is offering nearly double the number of high quality, native shrubs and trees, which are grown and provided by Clear Ridge Nursery in Carroll County.

“Autumn is a great time to plant native species because shrubbery and trees can survive and thrive over the winter months,” Maryland Forest Service Director Don VanHassent said. “There is certainly affordable, attractive and beneficial greenery for every public property and space among our diverse and robust offerings.”

Church, civic, community and school groups, homeowners associations, local governments, nonprofits, and others are eligible to purchase plantings from the Tree-Mendous program, as long as the shrubs and trees are planted on community and public land with prior approval from the landowner.

Since starting Tree-Mendous Maryland in 1989, the Maryland Forest Service has assisted more than 3,000 groups and organizations with plantings. Tens of thousands of shrubs and trees have been planted in communities, parks, schools, squares and towns across the state. Trees beautify the landscape, clean and filter air and water, and provide essential habitat for wildlife.

All orders must be delivered or picked up by Dec. 15.