Another important principle to remember is that you should plant only specimens grown locally from native seedstock. It is vital to recognize that individual species exhibit a range of genetic characteristics; by planting non-local specimens you may be causing more harm than benefit in terms of conserving biological diversity. Another important thing; do not over-emphasize the planting of rare species. They occur only rarely in nature, and they should be equally rare in replanting projects. See the Carolinian Canada factsheet Sources of Native Planting Stock for the Carolinian Zone for more information.

The following list of nurseries were carefully selected as those providing, native, genetically appropriate, plant species.

Reforestation Projects

Landowners planting trees are commonly limited by the planting stock that is available. Most often, reforestation is therefore done through planting coniferous species such as white pine, cedar, or white spruce. Today it is equally possible to reforest areas with deciduous species, provided that you are: replanting a relatively small area, and are prepared to maintain the planted trees individually for the first two to five years.

Start with the common deciduous species groups such as maple, ash, or oak. Be sure you are dealing with native species; avoid such varieties as Norway Maple. Then mix in some of the above listed Carolinian species to provide diversity. Some of these species might also be suitable specimen trees around your home or in your garden.

The most important principle to remember in this case is to ensure that you purchase only specimens grown locally from native seedstock, and that you do not over- emphasize the rare species. They occur only rarely in nature, and they should be equally rare in replanting projects. It is vital to recognize that individual species exhibit a range of genetic characteristics; by planting non-local specimens you may be causing more harm than benefit in terms of conserving biological diversity.

The following species are particularly rare, and should not be planted except under direction from a qualified botanist.

Pin oak (Quercus palustris)
Dwarf chestnut oak (Quercus prinoides)
Blue ash (Fraxinus quadrangulata)
Big shellbark (Carya laciniosa)
Cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminata)

The Redbud tree (Cercis canadensis) is only known from one historic natural occurrence on Pelee Island, and is considered extirpated as a native species, but it is widely introduced as a 'Carolinian' species in home gardens, and is a beautiful species to plant with its small pink blossoms that appear in May before the leaves come out.

Sources of Native Plants in the Carolinian Zone (Updated September 2007)
This list was compiled in cooperation with the Centre for Land and Water Stewardship
at the University of Guelph and the Society for Ecological Restoration

The following nurseries are known to provide some species of native Carolinian trees or shrubs. Be sure to ask to speak to a knowledgeable staff member and emphasize your interest in native species, of local origin.

For additional information you may obtain The Society for Ecological Restoration's 2008 Native Plant Resource Guide for Ontario which is available for a cost of $5.00 from the Ministry of Natural Resources 1-800-667-1940 or the Society for Ecological Restoration (Ontario) website.

Listing of sources in this factsheet does not imply endorsement by the authors, or by the Carolinian Canada Program, nor does omission imply other sources are unsuitable.

Your local garden centres may also carry some of these species.

Your local conservation authority or Ministry of Natural Resources office may be able to provide information on tree planting programs and available nursery stock in your area. Be sure to check which species are available. The private nurseries may have a wider selection of stock.

Be careful to ensure that the species you select are appropriate for your property. For example, sassafras and shagbark hickory prefer high dry spots while sycamores and black walnuts will be found in floodplain areas. The black gum tree will appear in lowland sites with poor drainage alongside the black ash, swamp white oak, and cottonwoods.

Ask for advice when you purchase planting stock, and follow it!

Funding for the development of this factsheet was provided by the Carolinian Canada Program. Agencies involved include: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Recreation, Ontario Heritage Foundation, Association of Conservation Authorities of Ontario, Wildlife Habitat Canada, World Wildlife Fund, Canadian Botanical Association, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Federation of Ontario Naturalists, and Parks Canada.