Hot Topics     Home and Family     K-12     After School     Enrichment Guide    

DEC Spring Tree Seedling Sale 2023



Check out free program available for youth groups

DEC Spring Seedling Sale

Start the New Year off by planning for spring planting! DEC’s Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery has dozens of New York-grown tree and shrub species available for low prices now through May 12. Some species sell out fast so check species availability and see how to get your order at the DEC website.

Youth organizations, schools, and homeschool groups: Apply now for a package of free seedlings through the 2023 School Seeding Program. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the program closes on March 31 or seedling stock runs out, whichever comes first.

Planting and caring for tree seedlings can help young people learn about ecosystems and the valuable role trees play. Schools and youth organizations are eligible to receive free trees or shrubs by participating in this educational program. Participants receive seedlings from the Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery along with guidance on how to plant and care for them.

Meeting Next Generation Science Standards

Provide young people with a hands-on way to understand natural systems, observe their environment, and learn key vocabulary. When students plant tree seedlings they can discover the structure and function of trees while building their awareness about conservation.

As the trees mature, they can serve as an ongoing living laboratory for young people to learn from. The experience can help students make informed decisions about the conservation and use of natural resources.

Eligible Organizations

Organizations that may apply include:
  • All schools located within New York State - public, private, nursery, elementary, secondary, vocational, college or university

  • Any youth education-based organization (including scout groups)

  • Homeschool groups, co-op, or other homeschool association, but not individual family homeschool
Limit of one application per school, homeschool group, or youth organization. Planting can be related to a wide variety of scholastic programs - it is not confined to any given subject, purpose, or age level. We encourage planting on-site so students can be responsible for the care and protection of the seedlings.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted by March 31st. Please make sure you have permission to plant in your chosen location before applying. Complete the application and apply either online or by mail. Limit of one application per school or organization.

How to apply online: Fill out and submit the online application (leaves DEC website).

How to apply by mail: Print, fill out and submit a paper application (PDF). You may also request a paper application be mailed to you by contacting the nursery at 518-581-1439.

Paper applications must be mailed to: DEC Tree Nursery, 2369 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Currently we have seedlings for:

Annual Spring Seedlings Sale: available for public and private plantings in New York State and bordering states.

School Seedlings Sale: available for educators and youth club leaders. Eligible classes and clubs are encouraged to apply before March 31 and will receive free tree seedlings to plant in April/May. 

View the 2023 Trees and Shrubs Brochure (PDF) for a list of this year's available species, their size, and their cost, as well as ordering information that is also found on this webpage. 

Note: The PDF does not include updates as the species are sold out. Visit the Nursery Stock Availability webpage for updates on what species have sold out, though we recommend ordering by phone so that operators can provide you with the most up-to-date availability information.

Before ordering, view the Nursery Catalog (PDF) for species descriptions and preferred site conditions, and consider specific space requirements for each type of tree.

Learn more and apply here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7127.html.


Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Save a life from stroke

    Tips from the American Stroke Association

    Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age – even young people. Despite being one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, strokes are largely preventable, treatable and beatable – if you can control your risk factors. read more »
  • Take steps now to protect your vision

    Regular eye exams are the best thing you can do

    Your quality of life and overall well-being depend on developing healthy habits. These practices are essential to your eye health. read more »
  • How women experience heart disease differently

    Symptoms are not always obvious

    Most people think of heart attacks as debilitating pain in the chest. However, that’s not always the case, especially for women, and missing the signs can be a matter of life and death. read more »
  • Serve a simple pasta salad this summer

    A quick and easy dish your family will love

    Some summertime dishes are just too good to be true. This Easy Pasta Salad is simple enough to become a favorite side and filling enough to serve as a light main course. read more »
  • Combatting Cracked Concrete

    Causes of failing concrete and how to solve them

    Concrete is a strong, durable and easy-to-maintain material that is popular for driveways, walkways, patios and more. Like most materials, though, it can inevitably wear down over time. read more »
  • A Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Own Oil

    It's easier than you think

    Changing your vehicle’s oil is a crucial maintenance task that can extend its life and improve performance. It’s also a task many DIYers can handle on their own with just a few tools. read more »
  • Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit

    Time to make a warm and inviting outdoor retreat

    A firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. read more »
  • Phones Down, Eyes Up™

    Campaign to reduce distractions and increase water safety

    May’s National Water Safety Month, the campaign aims to reduce distractions and improve water safety awareness, specifically targeting families as they head to pools and waterfronts this summer. read more »
  • Enjoy a light summer lunch

    Make broccoli the star of this dish

    Try this broccoli salad. It makes an ideal light lunch or simple summer side. read more »
  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »