Native tree, shrub sale supports eco-friendly program
The nonprofit group Conserve Lake County will accept online orders for more than 40 species of native trees and shrubs from Labor Day weekend through Sept. 25.
Many of the varieties are essential to songbird and butterfly populations and are not available at conventional nurseries and garden centers. All were selected for their home landscaping qualities and many feature stunning autumn colors. Proceeds support the group’s eco-friendly lawn and garden program, Conservation@Home.
Learn about the trees and shrubs and place orders at www.conservelakecounty.org. Orders can be picked up Oct. 4 and 5 at Conserve Lake County’s office at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve on Almond Road, just south of Route 120.
Most species are sold in five-gallon containers, a convenient, lightweight size that reduces transplant stress and allows the tree or shrub to quickly adapt and begin growing. October is the ideal month to plant trees and shrubs.
Blue beech, butternut and bicolor oak are examples of trees available. Black haw viburnum, Illinois rose and blue-fruited silky dogwood are several of the many shrubs.
Once established, native plants generally require far less care than horticultural cultivars. Also, their deep roots hold and build soil while filtering large quantities of stormwater.
“Planting native trees and shrubs is a gift to yourself and nature in Lake County,” said Nathan Aaberg, interim executive director for Conserve Lake County. “It’s exciting that more and more people are caring for nature close to home by incorporating native plants.”
Established in 1995, Conserve Lake County is a nonprofit organization that serves the many people who desire to keep Lake County’s land and water healthy for the well-being of people and wildlife. The member-supported group has preserved more than 400 acres of open space and helps public and private property owners steward natural areas, farmland, and landscaped sites.
Through the Conservation@Home program, Conserve Lake County offers presentations, Internet resources, property consultations and certification of qualifying properties that employ eco-friendly lawn and garden practices.
For details, call (847) 548-5989.