Welcome to the
John S. Ayton State Tree Nursery!

We produce millions of tree and shrub seedlings each year for reforestation and other plantings across Maryland and Delaware. We’ve been in the tree business for over 100 years, with our first nursery established at College Park in the early 1900’s. We are now located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore near the town of Preston and look forward to furnishing planting stock for many years to come.

Growing seedlings requires attention to nature’s schedule. Seed is harvested during late summer and the fall. Planting occurs during the fall and spring. We harvest and ship seedlings from late February to early May. All spring and summer we 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.

Take a look at the seedlings we offer. 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

DNR's JOHN S. AYTON ONLINE NURSERY

Note: If you are not sure which species are right for you needs, please call your local forestry office. They can answer questions about site conditions, species selection and financial incentives you may qualify for. Telephone numbers for local foresters are found at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/art/county_map.asp.