Forestry division is selling seedlings

Giving back to the environment can be as simple as planting a tree. Doing so not only can reduce energy costs but beautifies landscapes and attracts wildlife.

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The Georgia Forestry Commission is once again offering tree seedlings for sale. The seedlings, grown at the Georgia Forestry Commission Nursery in Byromville, are available for order by phone and are delivered to your local county forestry unit for pickup.

"This is the perfect time for planting trees," said Russ Pohl, chief of restoration services for the Georgia Forestry Commission.

Seedlings are dormant during the cold, wet winter months, according to Pohl. They are easily stored and shipped, and planting them during the winter gives the seedlings ample time to establish root contact with the soil.

"Rainy weather reduces their need for additional water," explains Pohl. "All in all, this is the very best time for planting trees in Georgia."

Each year, the Georgia Forestry Commission Nursery grows 15 million to 20 million seedlings, which are enough to reforest more than 30,000 acres, according to the forestry commission's Web site.

Slash and loblolly pines are the largest variety of seedlings offered, although other conifers and hardwoods also are for sale.

The Georgia Forestry Commission has provided research that shows trees "improve air quality by sequestering carbon, the by-product of burning fossil fuels, and by intercepting airborne particles," according to a recent press release.

"One acre of trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people every day and provides valuable stormwater runoff services.

"Additionally, statistics show healthy trees can add up to 15 percent to residential property value. Strategically placed trees can reduce summer cooling costs by as much as 30 percent, while contributing to landscape aesthetics and the attraction of songbirds and other wildlife."

Pohl says ordering tree seedlings is easy.

"We provide information and guidance on getting them planted on consumers' property," he said. "We look forward to helping our customers learn more about this renewable Georgia resource."

To order GFC seedlings through February, call 1 (800) GA-TREES or download an order form at GaTrees.org.