Are you looking to improve the look of your yard in spring?
Herrick District Library will continue its long tradition of celebrating Arbor Day with its decades-old tradition of Giving away tree seedlingsThis year, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday April 29.
Spring is a great time to plant trees because the plants are still in dormancy and have the summer, beginning of fall, and winter to prepare them for winter in their new environment. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources provides guidance for novice tree-planters. A Guide to Tree and Shrub Planting available online.
Knowing the site conditions will help homeowners choose the right tree for their yard. Each species has specific tolerances and needs that must be considered before planting.
The library has traditionally offered smaller tree species that are more popular with residents. Herrick will have 400 seedlings this year.
Participants can choose from eastern redbud, sugar maple, white flowering dogswood, or lilacs. Trees will be available until stocks run out. No library card is required.
There are many benefits to having trees on your property, especially in urban areas. Trees can help water management by absorbing stormwater and reducing the strain on stormwater infrastructure. Improved water management can also reduce pollution to Lake Macatawa, Lake Michigan, and other lakes.
Even small trees can make an impact. Tree canopies have the potential to positively impact the climate in your home. They can lower home energy costs, and provide more places to relax and recreate in every season.
Broad branches reduce the negative effects of wind and reduce noise pollution. Roots control erosion.
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Trees can add visual interest to our landscapes and provide psychological support. Trees provide shelter and food for many species, as well as these benefits.
We can increase the number of trees planted and the complexity of our landscapes. This is vital for native animals to thrive.
Most of the giveaway trees can be picked up at the Herrick Main Branch at 300 S. River Ave., while a small selection will be available at the North Branch at 155 Riley St.
Only one tree per person is allowed. People can enter a giveaway to win an additional tree. The winner will be contacted later that day. If none of the trees are claimed, they can be picked up at the library until they run dry.
Thanks to the generosity of many local organizations, this event was possible. The Holland Horticulture Club donated seedlings and Jonkers Garden donated the giveaway tree. The Holland Sentinel provided newspaper bags to bag individual seedlings.
Sarah Irvin, a naturalist at ODC Network, holds a B.S. Degrees in earth science and environmental studies.
About this series
The column MiSustainable Holland is a collection community voices sharing updates on local sustainability initiatives.
Learn about the different tree species that are available
Eastern redbudThey grow to about 20 feet in height, are drought-tolerant, and don’t require much water once established. They are fine in shade, deer browsing, and clay-rich soil. They are an attractive tree all year, with beautiful fall leaves and pink flowers in April.
White flowering dogwoodThey can grow up to 30 feet tall and are quite drought-tolerant. This plant is tolerant to shade, deer, clay soil, and attracts birds with its beautiful fall leaves.
Sugar maplesAfter 20 years, they can reach 20 feet in height. However, when mature, they can reach 80 feet. They can withstand some drought and are very adaptable to shade and have vibrant fall foliage.
LilacThis is a smaller shrub or multi-stemmed plant that can reach 20 feet in height at maturity. This highly sought-after plant is not native to Michigan but has been naturalized in our region. They are sensitive to deer, rabbit, clay soil, and attract pollinators.
