Welcome to the 2026 Spring Tree Sale!
Thank you for supporting conservation in Cheboygan County and for planting trees!
What is deer browse protection, and why does it matter?
White-tailed deer are a treasured part of Northern Michigan’s natural heritage. However, as many home gardeners could tell you, deer are voracious herbivores. Unguarded tree seedlings offer them a quick and easy snack!
When planting any deciduous, many shrub, and some evergreen species, survival can often be extremely low due to repeated browsing (nipping of branch tips, buds, and leaves) by white-tailed deer.
Browsing is so influential that it is not uncommon for nearly 100% of seedlings planted to be killed within one or two years if they are not protected. Thankfully, there are several options to enhance seedling growth and protect them from deer browsing.
Platanus occidentalis
Most recognizable by its multicolored mottled trunk at maturity, the sycamore is a grand tree for a larger site. Good replacement where ash have died from emerald ash borer. Often found growing along the banks of streams and rivers, sycamore prefers rich, moist soil and full to partial sun.
Protection from deer browsing is recommended.
Sold as bareroot seedlings, 18-24" tall.
Carya cordiformis
A moderately-fast growing hickory with value as a yard and a timber tree. Vibrant yellow fall color. Produces nuts eaten by wildlife. Ranges from moist riverbank soils to dry gravelly uplands. Full sun to light shade.
Protection from deer browse recommended.
Sold as a bareroot seedling, 12-18" tall.
Quercus macrocarpa
A slow growing, but massive and long-lived species of oak. Produces the largest acorn of any North American oak species. Can tolerate soils from wet to dry and droughty and grow in part shade but prefers full sun.
Protection from deer browsing is recommended.
Sold as bareroot seedlings, 18-24" tall.
Forestry Services
-
![]()
Want more wildlife friendly woods?
All species require their own set of habitat elements. Through thoughtful planning, you can benefit the wildlife that is most important to you, whether that be songbirds, deer, pollinators, grouse, or anything else!
-
![]()
Curious which species will thrive?
Understanding your soils is vital to successful tree planting and forestry. There are trees and shrubs adapted to wet conditions, dry conditions, high fertility, low fertility, rocky, sandy, acidic, or alkaline soil. Your District Forester can help you select trees that are best for your soils.
-
![]()
Questions about timber management and forest health?
Forests are always growing and changing. Forest management can help direct that change, reduce forest health issues, and create financial returns for the landowner.
