Restoring land back to healthโwhether itโs reforesting a once-logged property, rehabilitating riverbanks, or planting trees on open acreageโtakes thoughtful planning, local knowledge, and most importantly, the right tree species. At Cold Stream Farm, weโve worked with conservationists, landowners, farmers, and restoration professionals across the Midwest for decades. And weโve learned a thing, or two about which trees truly go the distance when it comes to land restoration.
If youโre looking to make a lasting impact on the environmentโand do it affordablyโbare root trees from a trusted wholesale nursery are the way to go. Letโs walk through the top tree (and a few shrub) picks we recommend for large-scale restoration projects.
Choosing the Right Trees Matters More Than You Think
Every property is different, and so is every restoration goal. Some folks are trying to stabilize steep slopes. Others want to bring wildlife back to a cleared-out area. Others still are replanting forest after a wildfire or years of overuse.
Thatโs why itโs never just about planting any trees. Itโs about planting the right treesโspecies that are native, hardy, and suited to your soil, moisture, and sun exposure. When you choose wisely, your trees are more likely to survive, support native wildlife, and stand strong for decades to come.
Our Favorite Wholesale Trees for Restoration Projects
Here are some of the top-performing trees and shrubs we grow and ship across the lower 48 statesโall available in bare root form for easy, cost-effective planting.
Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
Red oak is one of our most popular trees for restorationโand for good reason. Itโs strong, fast-growing, and supports a wide range of wildlife. If youโre planting on upland or moderately drained soils, red oak adds long-term value and beauty.
Why we love it:
- Produces acorns that feed deer, turkeys, squirrels, and birds
- Establishes quickly in the right soil
- Grows tall and strong, making it ideal for forest recovery
Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)
Need something that grows fast and creates cover? White pine is your tree. Itโs excellent for windbreaks, erosion control, and restoring stripped or degraded lands. Plus, itโs beautiful and adaptable.
Best for:
- Shelterbelts and reforestation
- Cold, northern climates
- Sites with poor or sandy soil
Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)
If your project involves restoring riverbanks or bottomland, donโt overlook the mighty sycamore. This tree is built for wetter soil and has a knack for holding ground in place with its far-reaching roots.
Benefits include:
- Fast growth and impressive size
- Natural erosion control
- Habitat for birds and small mammals
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
This tree thrives where other species struggle. Itโs hardy, evergreen, and perfect for protecting land from wind and sun exposure. And as a bonus, it provides cover for birds and pollinators.
Why it works for restoration:
- Handles dry, rocky, and poor soils
- Adds winter interest and habitat
- Ideal for forgotten fields or pasture edges
Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
If youโve ever seen a stand of quaking aspens dancing in the breeze, you know how magical they look. But beyond beauty, these fast growers are excellent for quickly repopulating disturbed land, especially after fire or logging.
What makes them great:
- Establish in tough environments
- Support wildlife from insects to large herbivores
- Spread by roots to form coloniesโgreat for covering space
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
For those looking to balance restoration with long-term value, black walnut is a standout. Itโs a valuable hardwood species that also plays a role in native forest regeneration.
Why plant it:
- Deep taproots stabilize the soil
- Great for future timber harvest
- Supports biodiversity in mixed hardwood ecosystems
Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum)
We couldnโt leave out the shrubs! Silky dogwood may be smaller, but itโs mighty when it comes to wetland restoration. Itโs a go-to species for creek edges, lowlands, and any place where you want dense growth fast.
Why we recommend it:
- Provides berries for birds
- Quickly forms thickets for cover and erosion control
- Great companion plant to taller tree species
Why Bare Root Trees Are the Best Fit for Projects Like Yours
If youโre planting at scale, thereโs no better value than bare root trees. Hereโs why:
- Easier to plant โ No pots, no soil, just roots. Theyโre light and simple to handle.
- Cost-effective โ You get more trees for your budget, perfect for covering big areas.
- Healthier roots โ Bare root trees often establish more easily than container-grown ones when handled properly.
Cold Stream Farm specializes in wholesale bare root trees and shrubs, and weโre here to make your large-scale project as successfulโand affordableโas possible.
A Few Tips for Planning Your Restoration Order
- Order early โ Our inventory is based on field estimates, and availability can change as the season progresses.
- Know your timeline โ Shipments usually go out about 3 weeks after confirmation, especially once harvesting is underway.
- Think variety โ A mix of species creates a stronger, more resilient ecosystem.
- Match species to your site โ Use moisture, soil, and light levels as your guide.
- Read our shipping info โ We only ship to the lower 48, and all orders must go through our website.
Whether you’re reclaiming a piece of farmland, creating habitat for wildlife, or helping nature heal, weโre honored to be part of the process. Cold Stream Farm has been supporting restoration efforts for more than 40 years, and weโre proud to offer the species, advice, and service you need to get the job done right.
Contact Cold Stream Farm at (231) 464-5809 today or visit us online for more information!
