The Best Trees for Wet, Sandy, or Clay Soils: Match Plants to Your Land

Not every property has perfect soil—and that’s okay. Whether you’re dealing with soggy lowlands, dry and dusty sand, or stubborn heavy clay, there are still plenty of trees that can thrive with the right match. At Cold Stream Farm, we talk to landowners all the time who think their soil conditions are a dealbreaker. The… Read more »

How Trees and Shrubs Help Control Erosion on Sloped Land

If you’ve ever dealt with erosion on sloped property, you know how frustrating—and damaging—it can be. Rain comes in, the water rushes downhill, and before long, you’re left with bare patches, washed-out soil, and even damage to nearby structures or water sources. The good news? You don’t need expensive equipment or concrete walls to fix… Read more »

How to Care for Bare Root Trees in Their First Year

Planting bare root trees is one of the most rewarding ways to build a landscape that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re restoring a habitat, improving your property’s tree line, or simply trying something new in your backyard, those little leafless sticks you planted have a big job ahead of them. But their success depends… Read more »

Best Wholesale Trees for Reforestation and Land Restoration Projects

Restoring land back to health—whether it’s reforesting a once-logged property, rehabilitating riverbanks, or planting trees on open acreage—takes thoughtful planning, local knowledge, and most importantly, the right tree species. At Cold Stream Farm, we’ve worked with conservationists, landowners, farmers, and restoration professionals across the Midwest for decades. And we’ve learned a thing, or two about… Read more »

How to Prep Your Land in Summer for Fall Tree Planting

If you’re already thinking ahead to fall planting—great! Fall is hands-down one of the best times to get trees and shrubs in the ground. Cooler temperatures and more consistent rainfall help new plants get established before winter, setting them up for a strong start in spring. But here’s the thing: if you wait until fall… Read more »

How Trees Support Local Wildlife Throughout the Year

A single tree can be a bustling ecosystem of its own—offering food, shelter, nesting spots, and safe passage for wildlife of all kinds. Across every season, from the first spring bud to the last leaf drop before winter, trees quietly support countless creatures in ways that often go unnoticed. At Cold Stream Farm, we understand… Read more »

Evergreens vs Deciduous Trees: Which Is Right for Your Landscape?

When planning a new landscape or enhancing an existing one, choosing the right trees is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Trees set the tone for your outdoor space—providing structure, shade, privacy, and seasonal beauty. At Cold Stream Farm, we offer a wide variety of evergreen and deciduous trees, and each type brings… Read more »

The Best Shrubs for Privacy and Habitat in Large Landscapes

When you own a large property—whether it’s a rural homestead, a conservation area, or a recreational retreat—privacy and function often go hand in hand. Many property owners want to shield certain areas from view, control wind, reduce road noise, or simply define natural borders. But why settle for a plain fence or artificial barrier when… Read more »

3 Fast Growing Deciduous Trees for Your Yard

Want to upgrade your yard with trees that grow quickly and look amazing? You’re in the right place. At Cold Stream Farm, we specialize in wholesale trees and shrubs for everything from backyard makeovers to full-scale wildlife habitats. If you’re aiming for fast growth and beautiful foliage, these three fast growing deciduous trees are worth… Read more »

Creating a Sensory Garden: Tips for Engaging All Five Senses

A sensory garden is a thoughtfully designed outdoor space that stimulates the senses through sight, smell, sound, touch, and taste. Whether you’re looking to create a relaxing retreat, an interactive garden for children, or a wildlife-friendly environment, choosing the right trees, shrubs, and plants is key to crafting an immersive experience. At Cold Stream Farm,… Read more »

Tips For Planting Pine Trees in Spring

Spring provides the optimal conditions for planting pine trees due to moderate temperatures, increased rainfall, and longer daylight hours. These favorable conditions allow young trees to develop strong root systems before the summer heat arrives. Pine trees are an excellent addition to landscapes, conservation projects, and wildlife habitats, providing shelter, erosion control, and a natural… Read more »

Rebuilding America’s Forests

A century ago, the American chestnut tree (Castanea dentata) was a dominant presence in the eastern United States, with an estimated 4 billion trees stretching from Georgia to Maine. This majestic species played a crucial role in forest ecosystems, providing habitat and food for wildlife, as well as valuable timber for human use. However, the… Read more »