TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida residents can now purchase tree seedlings to help combat deforestation for the upcoming tree planting season.
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service announced Monday the Tree Seedlings Ordering System opening, where the public can buy different quantities of pine seedlings in an effort for landowners to replenish forested areas.
Seeds are typically sold in increments of 1,000, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), but customers with more minor needs may now buy 500 or 250 seedlings, depending on availability.
"We are committed to supporting Florida’s reforestation efforts by providing top-quality seedlings," Simpson said in a statement. "The launch of our online portal makes it easier for landowners to access the seedlings they need to replenish Florida’s forests and timber resources."
The Florida Forest Service annually produces over 4 million bare-root pine seedlings at Andrews Nursery in Chiefland. Orders can be picked up from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at the nursery, or customers can pay a small delivery fee to have them delivered to any Florida Forest Service locations.
The nursery houses bare-root and containment seedlings. Containment seedlings include longleaf pine, slash pine, sand pine and wiregrass. A complete list of prices and products can be found on the FDACS website.
Bare-root pine trees are available to non-industrial private landowners, corporate landowners and state & federal agencies.
Sales are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis until the seedlings are sold out. Availability and pricing can be found on the FDACS website.
