By Karim Olaechea
Guest Writer
MountainTrue is taking orders for its Annual Native Plant Sale. This yearly fundraiser was established by the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition and has continued since the group’s merger with MountainTrue in 2019. Gardners and property owners can purchase trees and shrubs native to our Southern Appalachian mountains, and all proceeds benefit MountainTrue’s nonnative invasive species eradication program.
“Many of the harmful invasive plants that we work so hard to get rid of are planted by homeowners and gardeners who don’t realize the species are harmful to native plants and wildlife,” explains Tony Ward, Western Region Program Coordinator for MountainTrue.
“The trees and shrubs available through our native plant sale are safe, and they inspire a sense of place and pride in our mountain communities.”
Native trees and shrubs are a vital component of healthy streams and lakes. They help prevent erosion, filter pollution from runoff, and provide food and shelter for wildlife. MountainTrue staff and volunteers spend significant time and resources removing nonnative invasive plants along streams and lake shorelines to protect water quality and ensure that the native vegetation stays healthy.
There are 34 species of native trees and shrubs available in this year’s sale, including large shade trees, native ornamentals, pollinator species, and those particularly beneficial to wildlife. All plants are quality local nursery stock. Pricing is $15 for 1-gallon, $18 for 2-gallon and $25 for 3-gallon potted plants.
A complete list of tree and shrub species, along with plant descriptions, is available on this website at mountaintrue.org/nativetrees. Orders will be accepted through Sunday, November 14, while supplies last. Purchasers can pick up orders from the MountainTrue Western Regional Office parking lot at 90 Tennessee Street in downtown Murphy on Saturday, November 20, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.