Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates of the tree sale?

Our 2022-2023 tree sale opened in November 2023 and will continue until we sell out – probably sometime in February. The 2024-2025 sale will open in late November 2024. If you’re on our mailing list, you’ll get an early notification a few days before we go public.

How can I join the mailing list?

Enter your email addresson our Contact page! If you’ve bought one of our trees in the past or corresponded with us, we’ll be in touch.

Is there any rush to order?

Yes! Nurseries across the country have been hard-hit over the past few years by COVID-related shortages of supplies and manpower, and trees are in short supply again this year. As a result, we’re recommending that you order as early as possible, since we probably won't be able to restock once our initial order is sold out. And our most popular trees often sell out within a few days!

When and where will my tree arrive?

Our trees will be available for pickup on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm, at Soho's, 43 Bedford Street, in Westport.  Don't worry, we'll contact you with all the details in plenty of time.

What are bareroot trees?

Most of our trees arrive in bareroot form, with their roots bagged in plastic, rather than heavy pots of soil. As a result, they’re light to carry and easy to plant. The roots of bareroot trees are often much larger than the roots of a balled-and-burlapped or container tree, and they normally become established more quickly after transplanting.

What are plant hardiness zones?

Canada’s plant hardiness zones identify the areas where different trees and plants will probably survive. The harshest zone is 0, and the mildest is 8. Westport was once classified as zone 5a but, because of climate change, has now warmed up to zone 5b . All the trees we carry are suitable for our zone, and some for much colder areas.

Find the hardiness zone for your own municipality here. Sheltered areas of your property may be able to support trees that would not normally survive in your listed zone.

How big will my tree be on arrival?

The approximate size of the tree you will receive is shown in our catalogue listings. More often than not, the trees our grower sends us are significantly larger than indicated.

Do I need two fruit trees to get fruit?

Most fruit trees require a different variety of the same kind of tree within 200 feet. Bartlett pears, nectarines and some apple trees will self-pollinate, but will produce a heavier crop if they have another variety for company. Crabapple trees with white blossoms (like the Dolgo) make excellent pollinators for apple trees, and a beehive in the area will help too!

How long will it be before I have fruit on my tree?

Fruit trees are generally 3 to 6 years old before they start to bear fruit.  Given good conditions and proper care, our trees should begin producing in 2 or 3 summers, since they’ve already been growing for several years.

Where should I not plant my tree?

Make sure you that you’re well away from water, sewer, septic and gas lines, to avoid costly problems in the future.   And check that your tree will not interfere with overhead wires as it grows.

Where can I plant a willow tree?

Willows are happiest in damp or low-lying areas, and can make a soggy part of your lawn usable again by soaking up extra water. It’s recommended that they not be planted within 50 feet of water pipes or sewer lines, although this is a less serious problem with modern PVC pipe than it once was. They are a beautiful tree in a large landscape, but they do need space.

How should I plant my tree?

Click here for instructions on how to plant your new tree!