In celebration of Arbor Day, we're giving away free seedling trees to our customers. Customers will be able to pick up a seedling in Redding on April 19 at 9 AM, and at all our other stores on April 23rd starting at 11 AM. Varieties on hand will be an assortment of Red Maple, Japanese Maple, Eastern Redbud, Chinese Dogwood, Sweetgum, and Red Oak. We will begin offering tree seedlings to customers at 11:00AM. Traditionally, these free trees do not last long and they are only available while supplies last, so don't wait! Each of our stores will have free trees available in the nursery.
Here is a preliminary description of each of the trees available for free that day:
Acer rubrum / Red Maple
USDA Zones 3-9
A mid-sized deciduous tree native to eastern North America and renowned for its striking foliage and adaptable nature. Typically growing 40-60 feet, this species boasts vibrant but small red flowers in spring but is famously known for its brilliant red leaves in autumn. Red Maples thrive in well-drained, acidic to pH neutral soil, and regular moisture in the growing season. Tolerant to a variety of environmental conditions, including full sun to partial shade.
Acer palmatum var 'Atropurpureum' / Japanese Maple
USDA Zones 5-9
This cultivar of Acer palmatum has a graceful, rounded shape and is prized for its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet, with a similar spread, and thrives in partial shade with well-drained, acidic soil and regular watering. The tree's delicate, lacey leaves provide a rich contrast against green shrubs and other plants, making it a popular choice for bonsai, small gardens, and decorative planting beds.
Cercis canadensis / Eastern Redbud
USDA Zones 5-9
Native to eastern Northern America and prized for charming pink to purple blossoms that blanket bare branches in early spring, followed by dark green heart-shaped leaves. A mid-sized tree growing 20-30 feet tall, the Eastern Redbud is ideal for smaller landscapes or as an understory tree in larger settings. Thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade, though it can tolerate some shade. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, and occasional pruning to maintain its shape are recommended for optimal growth.
Cornus kousa var 'Chinensis' / Chinese Dogwood
USDA Zones 5-8
This variety of Cornus kousa features large, white to pinkish bloom-like bracts, which come into color late spring to early summer. The mid-sized tree grows to 15-30 feet, with a rounded, spreading form. Its dark green foliage turns vibrant red and purple in the fall and produces small, reddish fruits that attract birds. Prefers slightly acidic soil, full- to part-sun exposure, regular watering, and a cool root zone shaded from direct sun.
Liquidambar styraciflua / Sweetgum
USDA Zones 5-9
A native to the southeastern United States, prized for its unique star-shaped leaves, attractive fall foliage, and easily identifiable by distinctive spiky seed pods. Sweetgum are large trees typically reaching heights of 70' or more, with a spready of 40'+. Glossy, deeply lobed leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn. Sweetgums prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, though they are adaptable to various soil types and environmental conditions.
Quercus rubra / Red Oak
USDA Zones 3-8
A majestic and iconic deciduous tree native to eastern North America, towering to heights of over 75', with a spread equally as impressive. Deeply lobed, glossy green leaves turn a striking crimson-red in autumn, providing a stunning display of color. Red Oaks thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with moderate moisture and prefer full sun to partial shade. Requires regular watering until established, but can be drought resistant when deeply rooted.