CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman residents interested in planting native trees and shrubs can gain expert guidance at the upcoming Lunch & Learn: Native Trees for Me on Feb. 5 at noon. The event, hosted by the North Alabama Agriplex in partnership with the Cullman County Natural Resources Planning Committee, will be led by Cullman County Extension Coordinator, Dr. Kira Sims.
This informative session is designed to help participants make informed decisions ahead of the annual Tree Sale on Feb. 8. The cost to attend is $10 per person, which includes a light lunch and program. With limited space available, early registration is encouraged.
Dr. Sims emphasized that the program is tailored to both new and experienced gardeners. “Participants will learn characteristics about each plant with the goal of educating them on making the best purchasing decision,” said Sims. “Information will include mature plant size, cultural requirements like light, water and soil needs as well as attributes such as fall color, edible fruit and flower color. This information will also be available on the day of the sale.”
The Lunch & Learn will highlight seven native tree species and seven native shrub species, which will be available for purchase at the Tree Sale. The sale will take place at the North Alabama Agriplex on Feb. 8, from 9 a.m.-noon or until sold out. Trees will be sold for $3 each on a first-come, first-served basis, with purchase limits in place for the first hour. Available species include black walnut, flowering dogwood, sassafras, sourwood, southern magnolia and sycamore trees. Shrub options will consist of American elderberry, beautyberry, common witch hazel, arrowwood viburnum, oakleaf hydrangea and pawpaw. Species availability is subject to nursery stock.
For Sims, this event is an opportunity to educate residents on selecting plants that will not only thrive but also benefit the local environment. “In Extension, we use the phrase ‘right plant, right place’ as a reminder that plants are not a ‘one size fits all.’ This approach will not only save the client money, but it will help them find something they will enjoy,” she explained.
Proceeds from the tree sale will directly support the natural resources education in Cullman County for youth and adults. “Along with learning about the specific trees, this allows the community to support local education focused on natural resources stewardship,” she added. “Clients will also be purchasing high-quality trees and enhancing the natural resources of their own spaces.”
To register for the workshop, visit www.agriplex.org/WPtest/lunch-and-learn or call the North Alabama Agriplex at 256-297-1044. The venue is located at 1714 Tally Ho St. SW in Cullman.
Copyright 2025 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Chinese (Simplified)
English
German
Japanese
Spanish
