Native Roots Donates 25% of Online Purchase Amounts to Altrusa!

Commemorate the important events in an adopted child's life by planting a tree native to his or her birth country.  Just specify "Altrusa International" as your choice for a charitable donation during online check out.

As a living symbol of the "family tree", parents, relatives and family friends are encouraged to plant these native seedlings and watch them as they establish roots in the new soil of a new culture and a new family.

Whether planting a single tree or an entire garden, these trees are a significant and lasting metaphor for an adoptive family.  Choose from seedlings grown from seeds collected in China, Korea or Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions...

• I want to buy this as a gift for Christmas, but we can't plant it until spring. What should I do?
  A: If you live in a region where you can't plant it immediately, place the seedling in a slightly larger container with some additional soil around the paper pot it came in.  Keep the soil moist, but not wet or boggy.  It would be best if you place your plant in a window or other strong light source, but away from any heat source.  In spring, plant it outdoors after any chance of a hard freeze has passed.
  
  
• What size are the seedlings that I'll receive?
  A: Depending on the species ordered, the seedlings will be between 12" to 48" in height.  All seedlings are well-rooted starter plants, grown in biodegradable peat pots (paper pots) which you can plant directly into the ground.  The peat pot will range between 2"-4" squares depending on the type of plant you order.  Remember to replant them into a large pot if you plan on storing them for the winter.
  
  
• My tree doesn't have any leaves on it. Is it OK?
  A: During the winter dormant season, your plant will lose its foliage.  But don't worry, because in the spring the buds that are on the plant now will open up and leaf out.  Remember, even though it's dormant, it still needs to be watered -- especially if you wait until spring to plant it.  Keep the soil moist, but not wet.
  
  
• How do I know if the tree will grow in the area where I live?
  A: Our web site information includes the USDA hardiness zones where each plant is considered to do well in.  You can find a hardiness zone map in any gardening manual, at your local nursery, or use this chart below to help you determine if the plant is right for your area.  Experienced gardeners know this is just a guideline, and you may live in a "microclimate" that allows you to grow plants that others just down the road cannot.  For example, here on the southern Oregon coast we can grow citrus and eucalyptus trees.  However, it would be impossible to raise these trees just 15 minutes inland.  Experiment and have fun. I f you're uncertain, ask an experienced gardener who lives nearby.