The benefits of trees have been proven to impact residents in a multitude of ways. A healthy tree canopy means clean air, fresh water, stormwater mitigation, cooler temperatures, enhanced physical and mental health, as well as natural beauty.
In 2026, we will have the following seedlings to adopt out in Mecklenburg County:
Eastern Redbud, Cercis canadensis – A deciduous, fast growing native tree that grows in full sun to partial shade. At full maturity, it can between 20′-30′ tall and 25′-35′ feet wide. Known for their showy pea-like fuchsia flowers in the early spring.
Elderberry, Sambucus canadensis – A small, typically multi-stem, deciduous tree with showy white flowers that bloom in the summer. They grow best in full to partial sun and have an average growth rate. At full maturity, it can be between 5-12′ tall and 6-12′ wide. Flowers are followed by purple-black fruit produced in clusters.
Interested in seedlings for your community or upcoming event?
Fill out this form!
Seedling requests are first come, first serve and seedling are limited. TreesCharlotte normally has seedlings between the months of March and May each year, while seedling supplies last.
Seedling planting instructions:
- Plant your seedling immediately, either in the ground or in a pot. Do not allow the roots to dry out. If you’re planting in a pot or container, be sure the vessel has drainage holes and is at least the length of your seedling’s roots.
- Dig a hole to accommodate the size of the roots. If using a planter pot, fill your pot 2/3 full with soil, while leaving a hole in the center for your seedling.
- If you received your seedling wrapped with newspaper, unwrap your seedling and discard the newspaper. Newspaper can be recycled or composted.
- Plant the seedling with the root collar at ground or soil level surface.
- Partially fill the hole, firming the soil around the lower roots. Fill hole with soil up to the root collar.
- Add the remaining soil. It should be firmly but not tightly packed.
- If available, sprinkle a bit of mulch on top of the soil but do not pile it up against the trunk of the tree.
- Give the seedling plenty of water. Be sure to not let the soil completely dry out in between waterings.
- Do not add soil amendments, fertilizer, or chemicals on your new tree – it doesn’t need it!
- If you’ve planted your seedling in a pot, your seedling can happily live indoors for a few years in a sunny spot or on a balcony or porch. Be sure to “size up” your pot every year to accommodate the growth of your tree.
- And last but not least, enjoy your new tree!
Ideas on how to reuse the seedling bag:
- Use them as produce bags at the grocery store.
- Store dirty shoes in them when traveling.
- Take the bags when walking your pup to pick up dog waste.
- Store wet umbrellas in them.
- Store gardening tools, seed packets, etc.
