Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates of the tree sale?

Our 2024-2025 tree sale will open on Saturday, November 16, 2024 and continue until we are completely sold out – probably sometime in February. If you’re on our mailing list, you’ll get an early notification a day or so before we go public.

Why buy from Westport Blooms?

We offer over 40 varieties of high-quality trees from an award-winning wholesale nursery, all chosen to suit the climate in our planting zone (5b) and some for even colder areas. All proceeds are used to beautify the Village of Westport. As a very small group consisting entirely of volunteers, we operate with very low overhead and charge NO TAX.

How can I join the mailing list?

Enter your email address on 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 were hard-hit in recent years by COVID-related shortages of supplies and manpower, and trees continue to be in short supply. 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 3, 2025, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, at Soho's, 43 Bedford Street, in Westport.  Don't worry, we'll contact you with all the details in plenty of time.

Bareroot trees and container trees - what’s the difference?

Many of our trees arrive in bareroot form, with their roots bagged in plastic. As a result, they’re light to carry and easy to plant. The roots of bareroot trees are as large as, or larger than, the roots of a balled-and-burlapped or container tree, and they normally become established quickly after transplanting. They should be planted as soon as possible to prevent the roots from drying out.

In response to customer interest, this year we are also offering significantly more trees in containers. These have the advantage of not needing to be planted quite so promptly after pickup as bareroot trees.

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 cherry and 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!