Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is hosting its annual fall native tree and shrub sale, offering a selection of 44 different species, including three new additions. All plants are locally grown from seed within 100 miles of DuPage County.

Orders can be placed online while supplies last, with pickup scheduled for Friday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at St. James Farm in Warrenville. Shoppers must order in advance as there will be no on-site sales during the pickup times.

Fall is considered an optimal time for planting native trees and shrubs as it allows them an extra growing season before summer's stress sets in. These native plants go dormant in winter, akin to hibernation, ensuring their survival through the colder months.

Native trees and shrubs offer several benefits over nonnative species; they are more resilient to Illinois weather conditions and do not require fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or additional watering once established. They also enhance soil stability and provide food and habitat for local wildlife, including pollinators.

The sale will feature seven oak species: bur, chinquapin, northern pin, red, shingle, swamp white, and white oaks. Oaks are keystone species essential for supporting various other plants and animals.

Proceeds from the sale will support educational programming at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

The Forest Preserve District manages 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways in DuPage County. It aims to improve residents' quality of life by contributing to cleaner air and water and providing habitats for wildlife. The district attracts over 5.5 million visitors annually across its preserves and educational centers.

For further information or to place an order online, visit dupageforest.org or contact the district at 630-933-7200.

"We strive to connect all people to nature," said a representative from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. "We're committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging."