State nurseries and private nurseries in Wisconsin grow tree seedlings adapted to our climate. Other mid-western or Lake States nurseries also produce stock that will grow well, but avoid ordering from nurseries more than 100 miles south of the state line. Plant tree and shrub seedlings in April or early May by following these planting tips . Seedlings may be planted by hand using a shovel or planting bar or with a tree planting machine. Check with the DNR forester in your county to find out if a planting machine is available to use.
Many counties have planting machines that they rent out for a reasonable fee.
The landowners must usually provide their own tractor and crew to do the planting. To be practical, plan on a maximum of 500 trees per day per person for hand planting crews. If you do not want to plant trees yourself, check with your DNR forester for a list of custom tree planting services. Custom tree planters can do the entire job for you, including the site preparation, planting and follow up care. Don't expect to walk away from your seedlings once they are in the ground.