voc2021 ep 31: Richard Garrett

Richard Garrett (Photo courtesy of John S. Ayton State Forest Tree Nursery.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (Md DNR) produces millions of tree and shrub seedlings each year for reforestation and other plantings across Maryland and Delaware. They’ve been in the tree business for over 100 years, with the first DNR nursery established at College Park in the early 1900’s. The John S. Dayton Tree Nursery is located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore near the town of Preston.

Growing seedlings requires attention to nature’s schedule. Seed is harvested during late summer and the fall. Planting occurs during the fall and spring. The crew harvests and ships seedlings from late February to early May. All spring and summer they are watering, fertilizing and weeding the seedlings. It’s a never ending cycle of renewal that results in healthy, vigorous seedlings being planted across the state.

“Whether you want to reforest timberland or create a windbreak, improve wildlife habitat or just enjoy the feeling of planting trees, we hope we can serve you.”

Richard Garrett, Nursery Manager

Photo: Michael Buckley

Track 4 is a Bonus Track. Trks 5-9 are Field Tracks. Apologies for the wind. Mostly unedited. MB