TAMA COUNTY – Tama County Master Gardeners will be in two communities on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to noon (or as quantities last) distributing native tree seedlings to the public. Stop by the Tama Library in Tama or the TMU parking lot in Traer to receive two seedlings per household at no charge.

The bareroot tree seedlings that will be available include Serviceberry, Red Oak, Redbud, Sugar Maple, and Norway Spruce. All of these are native to Iowa and adapted to growing conditions in this part of the state to ensure the best survival rate. Bare root seedlings have a greater comparative root mass and often tend to experience less transplant shock than larger plants, potentially leading to faster growth and establishment when compared to larger trees.

Each tree will come with planting information and a description to help determine the best site for planting. When planting trees, be sure to look for buildings and overhead wires that may interfere as the tree matures. Check with your local city to see about any restrictions for tree placement before planting. Always contact 811 before digging.

Tama County Master Gardeners began this project in 2021 following the 2020 Derecho and have continued to make trees available as the emerald ash borer has killed large numbers of remaining trees in the county. Trees add beauty and value to residential properties and energy saving benefits in both summer and winter.