Peace Garden News

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has advised homeowners to carefully select nursery stock by reading tags and researching varieties before planting trees and shrubs. "Spring is here, and homeowners may be anxious to add trees and shrubs to their landscapes," said Goehring. He emphasized the importance of consulting with local experts such as nursery dealers, horticulturists, or extension agents to ensure that the plants are suitable for North Dakota's climate.

Goehring noted that the North Dakota Department of Agriculture receives complaints annually regarding non-hardy stock being sold in the state. North Dakota falls within plant hardiness zones 3 and 4, making it crucial for consumers to verify that plant tags reflect the correct hardiness zone.

State law mandates labeling of all non-hardy trees and shrubs designated by the agriculture commissioner as "non-hardy in North Dakota." Goehring stated, "Selling unlabeled non-hardy stock is bad behavior, predatory in nature and a waste of the consumer’s money." He urged consumers who purchase such stock to seek a full refund.

Violations of this law can result in penalties up to $500 per incident, with repeated violations potentially leading to denial or revocation of a nursery license. "Some plants are not adapted to surviving our North Dakota winters when the temperature can drop to 25 degrees below zero and colder," Goehring explained. This lack of adaptation can also make plants more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Common non-hardy trees and shrubs available for sale include emerald arborvitae, dwarf Alberta spruce, eastern redbud, oakleaf hydrangea, Japanese snowball (Viburnum plicatum), dappled willow, and certain fruit tree varieties like peaches and sweet cherries. Despite labels indicating hardiness from 30 to 40 degrees below zero, some species suffer winter burn leading to death or severe dieback.

Nursery inspectors from NDDA have been conducting visits to ensure compliance with labeling laws as well as checking for pests, disease, plant health, and viability. Further information on non-hardy trees and shrubs along with a list of licensed nurseries can be found on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture website.