Everyone is welcome to join the Berks County Conservation District’s at our annual Tree Seedling Sale on April 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Berks County Agricultural Center (1238 County Welfare Road Leesport, please follow the signs on County Welfare Road. We now have one day pick-up with extended hours.

Although winter has just started, it is never too early to begin thinking about spring! The tree seedling sale offers a wide variety of conifers, trees, shrubs, and the growing selection of fruit producing plants. Other items available include planting bars, fertilizer pellets, wildflower seed, and rain barrels.

There are many new additions this year; some items include Japanese Black Pine, Swamp White Oak, Arrowwood, Red Twig Dogwood, Pear Trees, Peach Trees and Cherry trees. Additionally, new for this year are five foot tree tubes to help protect your seedlings from deer, rabbits, chemical spray and machinery until they get well established.

The plants are available on a first come, first served basis. So, get your pre-orders in today. To order visit the BCCD’s website to view the catalog and order form or call 610-372-4657 to request your copy today. The deadline to place your order is February 23.

Some inventory may be purchased on during pick up on April 17, but supplies will be limited.

During our Seedling Sale event, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., join BCCD and the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners at ‘Backyard Basics’ as we explore conservation topics and discuss helpful “backyard” tips!

The always popular “Ask a Master Gardener” booth will be answering those tough gardening questions! Other highlights include rain barrel tips, demonstrations of composting, and proper planting techniques. Make sure to join us for some backyard fun!

Proceeds from our annual Seedling Sale benefit the Berks County Conservation District’s Scholarship Fund.

These scholarships are awarded to students who wish to continue their college education with the intent of majoring in environmental science, forestry, agriculture, engineering or related studies. So place your order today to plant some trees this spring and send someone to college.

1/16/2015