Native Tree Sale Helps Fund Alpharetta Tree Canopy

ALPHARETTA, GA — Now through March 21, Alpharetta homeowners have an opportunity to get native trees and shrubs for the yards while helping to fund the addition of trees to parks and public spaces. The Alpharetta Natural Resources Commission is celebrating Arbor Day by offering a native tree sale with all proceeds being invested in the city’s Tree Bank Fund.

“Each year the Natural Resources Commission hosts an event to celebrate Arbor Day,” said commission chair Deb Zemlock. “Traditionally, that has been in the form of a tree planting in one of our public parks, but this year we wanted to do something that would add to Alpharetta’s tree canopy while raising awareness of the fact that the majority of land available for planting is privately held by Alpharetta homeowners. So, rather than planting trees in public places this year, we want to engage the citizens of Alpharetta to plant native trees and shrubs in their own yards.”

Zemlock said that, while the Natural Resources Commission is calling the event a native tree sale, the organization is greatly subsidizing the cost.

“All we ask for is a small suggested donation of $10 for a 3-gallon shrub, or $24 for a 7-gallon tree,” she said. “Our main goal is to have more trees planted on private properties. Generating funds for the City Tree Bank, while beneficial to the community, is secondary.”

This special offer is available to Alpharetta residents only. Supplies are limited, so only one plant will be permitted per address.

Residents must order their tree or shrub online at https://bit.ly/38RxKIa. Those who place orders will have three opportunities to pick-up their plants at the Farm at Old Rucker Park, which is located at 860 Rucker Road in Alpharetta. Pick-up can be made on March 6 between 3 and 7 p.m., March 7 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., or March 21 between 1 and 3 p.m.

Free mulch will be available to those picking up their plants, so bring a bag or container.

Additional information, including a list of available plant types and species, is available on the ordering site.