NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry’s (TDF) East Tennessee Nursery is accepting tree seedling orders until March 15, 2026, or while supplies last. More than two dozen tree and shrub seedlings are currently available for reforestation and conservation projects.

“Native species seedlings grown at our East Tennessee Nursery play an important role in the expansion and regrowth of our forests,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “Grown from seed gathered no more than 50 miles from Tennessee’s borders, these seedlings are uniquely positioned to thrive in our state. Planting native species helps ensure the resilience and health of urban and rural southern forests.”

The East Tennessee Nursery cultivates millions of native trees and shrubs each year and sells seedlings in bulk to public, nonprofit, and private organizations, as well as individuals.

Several cost share and financial assistance programs are available to qualified landowners to provide financial assistance for seedling purchases. Sponsored programs include:

- The Beam Suntory program promotes the purchase of oak and hickory seedlings.

- The Promark (formerly D’Addario) program supports the sustainability of hickory and oak in Tennessee.

- The Huber Engineered Woods, LLC. Program funds purchasing loblolly pine 2.0 seedlings.

- The Tree City USA program supports cities and towns seeking to grow urban and community forests.

Each program has its own eligibility requirements, and some require a forest management plan. Contact your local area forester at www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/staff to learn more about these programs and their eligibility requirements, including forest management plans.

Landowners may also qualify for cost share opportunities for hardwood and softwood seedling purchases through the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP). For information, visit www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/landowner-assistance/financial-assistance.html.

Please visit www.planttntrees.org to purchase seedlings online.

The Division of Forestry protects and promotes the responsible use of forest resources in Tennessee. Focus areas include assisting landowners with a variety of services, providing quality tree seedlings, supporting forest health programs, collecting forest inventory data, assisting forest industries, and fighting wildland fires. Visit www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests for more information.