From little things, big things grow.
As part of The ChariTree Foundation’s ‘A Tree For Every Child’ tree planting program, we usually plant White Spruce seedlings. They are also called Canadian Spruce seedlings because they are a hardy tree native to all parts of Canada – a great choice for little kids. White Spruce can grow 27 meters (90 ft) to 41 meters (135 ft) in height. Other trees are available depending on your geographic location and our supplies at the time of your request.
White Spruce are adaptable to a wide range of conditions and happiest from zones 2 to 8 across Canada.
Plant your seedling in partial shade except in warmer climates where you should plant your seedling in the shade on the north side away from the sun. Water often. Take care of your seedlings so they can grow big and strong. Remember that the bigger the tree, the better the wind break and the more carbon it will offset for the planet.
Keep your seedling in a cool place until you are ready to plant. Plant it within a couple of days and if you can’t plant it outside right away (in northern climates), then put it in a pot with fresh potting soil and plant it after the last frost. They make adorable indoor plants for many months.
When you are ready to plant outside, choose a spot with good soil (wet but well drained is ideal) and lots of room to grow.
Dig a hole and place the root plug in the hole pressing the soil firmly around it.
Always water after planting and every week in dry weather in northern climates, every day in southern zones as applicable. Feel the soil around the tree to see if it’s too wet or too dry.
All camps that have received free tree seedlings from The ChariTree Foundation must take good care of their seedlings and email photos of campers holding or planting seedlings as proof that they have been planted and so more people will want to support this TREE-mendous program.
If you want you can also plant a wish tree – here are the wish tree planting instructions: HOW TO PLANT A WISH TREE
Happy Tree Planting!
“The children had a great day outside learning about the trees and how to plant and care for them. As the trees grow, they will provide important habitat and their shade will help maintain a healthy, cool water temperature in Joseph Creek. Thank you ChariTree!”
~ Blue Lake Camp, Cranbrook, BC