August 8, 2025, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources:
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry is proud to share the first seedlings at the newly established Buckeye State Tree Nursery in Zanesville are now sprouting. Since its launch last year, nursery staff have planted more than 500,000 seeds and are planning to begin distributing Ohio-grown seedlings for conservation projects across the state in spring 2026.
“The Buckeye State Tree Nursery is not only providing a more resilient future for Ohio’s forests, but it also symbolizes a promise to Ohio’s future generations,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Next year is also the perfect time to plant seedlings from the Buckeye State Tree Nursery as America celebrates its 250th birthday.”
“Growing our own seedlings shows that we care about cultivating Ohio’s native trees,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “From buckeye trees to black walnuts, the Buckeye State Tree Nursery is helping us to lay down roots for the future.”
The Buckeye State Tree Nursery is growing approximately 40 different tree species, including the Ohio buckeye, that are well-suited for Ohio’s climate. The nursery's focus is on cultivating native species such as red and white oak, black walnut, American chestnut, American hazelnut, persimmon, American plum, white pine, arborvitae, and Virginia pine. The nursery supports key ODNR initiatives, including H2Ohio, the Girl Scout Tree Promise, the Northwest Ohio Windbreak Program, and abandoned mine land reclamation projects.
“Ohio’s forests are a defining part of our state’s landscape,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “The Buckeye State Tree Nursery is a valuable tool that will help us strengthen forest health, expand habitat, and enhance the beauty of Ohio’s natural spaces.”
Approximately 80% of the seedlings are expected to be ready for distribution in spring 2026, with the remaining seedlings held back to grow an additional year before planting in 2027. On average, it takes five to 10 years for seedlings to grow into trees. Right now, seedlings are available only for ODNR-led projects, with plans underway to develop an online store for public seedling purchases.
“The purpose of the Buckeye State Tree Nursery is to grow and provide high-quality seedlings genetically adapted to Ohio’s conditions for reforestation and conservation efforts,” said ODNR Division of Forestry Chief Dan Balser. “Collecting seeds across different regions in Ohio ensures these seedlings can be planted where they are best suited, improving their survival and success.”
Located at the former Zanesville Nursery site, the Buckeye State Tree Nursery produces seedlings in greenhouses using air-pruning containers. This results in faster growth and extended planting seasons while providing seedlings best suited for Ohio’s diverse environments.
The Ohio Division of Forestry promotes the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov. Follow us on Facebook and on Instagram @odnrforestry.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
