It's official - we will once again be offering American chestnut seedlings for sale in 2022!
Trees are supplied by the Maine Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation and proceeds from the sale directly benefit the MCACF and Viles Arboretum.
This sale is an incredible fundraiser for both organizations that offers members of our community the opportunity to participate in the conservation of these incredible trees.
The seedlings available through this sale are pure American chestnuts, not hybrids. Seed is sourced from Maine trees that are hardy and well suited for our climate conditions. Where these are not hybrids, your trees will likely be susceptible to chestnut blight. There is no cure for the blight, but there are several steps you can take to reduce the likeliness of transmission to your trees; reduce the chances of abrasions to bark by installing guards or caging around trees, do not prune trees when conditions are wet, sterilize pruning equipment and clothing after traveling to sights where blight might be present.
While there is no guarantee that the blight will spare your trees, it isn't a reason to avoid planting them all together. It is more likely that we might observe resistance in American Chestnuts in a larger, more genetically diverse population. By distributing a large number of trees to the public, we create security for this amazing tree through genetic preservation and community awareness.
We encourage everyone to plant at least two trees, as they are unable to self-pollinate. If you are hoping to enjoy delicious nuts, or to plant some of your own seeds someday, you will need at least two individual trees.
Chestnuts can be purchased now by following this link; American Chestnut Sale 2022 they sell-out fast so don't delay!
