COLUMBIA, S.C. — Arbor Day is a day dedicated to trees and helping them grow. South Carolina will celebrate Arbor Day on the first Friday in December, simply because it is the best time of year to plant trees and shrubs.
Bob Askins is the president of the South Carolina Native Plant Society's Midlands Chapter. According to him, native trees and shrubs are vital to the Midlands ecosystem.
“If you like butterflies or you like birds, then you want to have native species in your yard or on your street,” Askins said.
This Arbor Day, the South Carolina Native Plant Society Midlands Chapter is hosting a sale of native trees and shrubs at the Woodrow Wilson family home in downtown Columbia.
“One big advantage of native trees and shrubs is that because they evolved and developed in this region, they are adapted to the soil, water, and climate that we have, ”Askins said.
The beauty of our landscapes is greatly enhanced by native trees and shrubs, which require less maintenance and are more resistant to pests.
Of course, native trees can provide excellent shade and significantly cool air temperatures.
“It's really important that we reestablish that canopy and the shade that helps us survive our famously hot summers here in Columbia,” Askins said.
Mark your calendars for December 2nd! The sale will have a variety of Midland's natives, from canopy trees down to small shrubs. Most will be priced around $20–25 for 3-gallon pots.