FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2012

Celebrate N.C. Arbor Day by planting a tree

RALEIGH — Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler is encouraging North Carolinians to plant a tree on March 16, Arbor Day in North Carolina.

“Trees bring more than scenic beauty,” Troxler said. “Large deciduous trees provide shade and cool houses in the summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. Evergreen trees can help save on heating bills by blocking the wind in the winter. Trees are also excellent filters for pollution that find their way into our lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal waters and underground sources of drinking water.”

Residents interested in planting trees should consider species native to the state because they typically require less maintenance and are better suited to the local soils and climate, said State Forester Wib Owen.

“As with anything you plant, be sure you are putting your trees in an appropriate and safe location,” Owen said. “We encourage you to follow ‘right tree, right place,’ meaning that before you plant a tree, know what it looks like at maturity and its site requirements.”

Consider the height, crown spread, proximity to electrical wires and buildings, and the available planting space above and below ground, which is crucial to the tree’s long-term survival, Owen said.

The official North Carolina Arbor Day is celebrated on the first Friday after March 15. National Arbor Day is on the last Friday in April. Different communities in the state may celebrate their local Arbor Day at different times.

For information related to native tree nurseries in North Carolina or to order seedlings through the N.C. Forest Service, log on to http://ncforestservice.gov. Seedlings can also be ordered by phone at 888-NCTREES, at any Forest Service facility, or by mail using one of the agency’s free catalogs.

To find out more about the benefits of trees on your property, visit The International Society of Arboriculture’s website at www.treesaregood.com or contact Nancy Stairs, Urban Forestry Program coordinator, at 919-857-4842.

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