ALBANY, NY (January 06, 2026) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has opened its annual spring seedling sale at the Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery, with orders accepted through May 13.
The sale offers low-cost, locally grown trees and shrubs to encourage plantings that support conservation efforts and contribute to Governor Hochul’s goal of planting 25 million trees across the state by 2033.
“DEC’s Saratoga Tree Nursery annual seedling sale is a simple, affordable way for New Yorkers to help create wildlife habitat, clean our air and water, reduce flooding, lower summer temperatures, and improve the quality of life in their communities,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “Every tree planted counts toward Governor Hochul’s 25-million-tree-planting goal for the state, which will strengthen our forests and build more resilient communities. By planting native seedlings today, you’ll be making a lasting investment in a healthier, greener future for generations to come.”
The nursery grows more than 50 conifer and hardwood species from local seed sources, producing seedlings well suited to New York’s climate. Seedlings are sold in bundles of 25 or more, with several mixed species packets available. They are bare root, a minimum of 5 inches tall, and 1–3 years old depending on the species.
Orders can be placed by calling 518-587-1120, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional details are available on the Spring Seedling Sale webpage on DEC’s website.
To ensure planted trees are counted toward the state’s 25 million trees goal, individuals should enter them into the Tree Tracker at on.ny.gov/treetracker. More information about the 25 Million Trees Initiative is available at on.ny.gov/25milliontrees.
Free Seedlings Offered Through School Program
Applications are now being accepted for the nursery’s School Seedling Program through March 27. Schools and youth education organizations statewide can apply to receive 50 free seedlings to plant with students.
The program aims to foster environmental stewardship at a young age and help students make informed decisions about natural resource use. It also serves as a hands-on tool for educators to meet Next Generation Science Standards by teaching about natural systems, the role of trees, and conservation issues.
Eligible applicants include all schools (public, private, nursery, elementary, secondary, vocational, college, or university), homeschool groups, and youth education-based organizations, as long as trees are planted within New York State. Individual homeschools must apply through a homeschool group, co-op, or other association.
Up to two teachers or educators per school or organization may apply. Available species are pitch pine, red oak, and silky dogwood. Seedlings are 2–3 years old, about 4–12 inches tall, and bare root.
Application information and online forms are available on DEC’s website. For questions or assistance, contact the Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery at nysnursery@dec.ny.gov or 518-581-1439.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.