Tree Sale

The annual Native Tree and Shrub Sale is organized each year to provide local land owners with an opportunity to purchase native trees and shrubs at reasonable prices. Tree and shrub varieties will be announced and available to order in early February through the South St. Louis SWCD online store or by mail with a printable order form. Once open, the sale page will have real-time inventory numbers providing the best and quickest availability information.

Orders are delivered through in-person pickup only. Pickup locations include Duluth, Grand Marias, and our 408 First Avenue, Two Harbors office. If you are picking up at the Two Harbors office, please pull around to the alley behind the building to collect your trees. More information.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to plant the trees?
Ideally, as soon as you get them. Realistically, plant within days. Much past a week after pick-up is pushing it. The trees need to be tended to daily, so it will be easier on you and the trees if you can plant them quickly.

How do I store my trees until I plant them?
Find a cool, shaded spot next to something you can lean the trees against. Set the roots directly on the ground, wrap the outside of the roots in burlap or an old bath towel, and water multiple times per day. Keep the roots and their wrapping wet, as you do not want the roots to dry out. Do not submerge roots in a bucket of water, as they will drown.

How big are the trees? Should I pick them up in a trailer?
No, most of the trees will easily fit in a car. Look at the order form for the heights of the trees you are purchasing. We wrap the roots in a bag so your car doesn’t get dirty.

Can I order less than a bundle?
Unfortunately, we can’t break down the bundles. However, you might have a friend or neighbor who would like to split a bundle with you.

Why don’t you sell (insert name of tree here)?
We only sell Minnesota native trees and shrubs, and we take many factors into consideration when making our list. Changing climates, previous years’ sales, what is available from nurseries, and current issues in forestry all factor into what trees we select.

What if I can’t pick up my trees on the assigned day?
You’ll need to find someone to pick them up for you. We aren’t able to care for the trees after the pick-up day.

Will the deer eat my trees?
If they’re hungry enough, we’ve all seen what deer can do to any plant. If deer are a problem in your area, you can build simple cages or put fences up around your trees.

Can I buy the leftover trees?
No, we do not sell any unclaimed trees.

How do I know when to pick up my trees?
You’ll find pick-up information on the order form. We will send out an email reminder about a week before the pick-up. If you’re not certain or don’t receive an email, please don’t hesitate to call us!

All information was provided by South St. Louis Soil & Water Conservation District