Central ND News

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring is advising homeowners to carefully select trees and shrubs suitable for North Dakota's climate before planting. He suggests consulting with local experts, such as nursery dealers or horticulturists, to ensure the selection of appropriate nursery stock.

"Spring is here, and homeowners may be anxious to add trees and shrubs to their landscapes," Goehring stated. "Many varieties of trees and shrubs adapt well to North Dakota’s climate and soils, but before you plant, you may want to talk with a trusted local nursery dealer, horticulturist or local extension agent. They will help you select nursery stock that you will enjoy for years to come."

Goehring highlighted the issue of non-hardy plants being sold in the state, leading to numerous complaints from consumers and dealers each year. He noted that North Dakota falls within plant hardiness zones 3 and 4, making it essential for buyers to verify plant tags for correct hardiness zone information.

State law mandates labeling non-hardy trees and shrubs as "non-hardy in North Dakota." According to Goehring, selling unlabeled non-hardy stock is problematic: "Selling unlabeled non-hardy stock is bad behavior, predatory in nature and a waste of the consumer’s money," he said. He encouraged consumers who purchase such items to seek refunds.

Violations of this law can result in fines up to $500 per incident. Persistent offenders risk losing their nursery licenses.

Goehring explained some plants struggle with North Dakota's winter temperatures that can fall below -25 degrees Fahrenheit. These conditions make certain plants vulnerable not only due to temperature but also soil types and dry conditions which can increase susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Commonly sold non-hardy species include emerald arborvitae, dwarf Alberta spruce, eastern redbud, oakleaf hydrangea, Japanese snowball (Viburnum plicatum), dappled willow, as well as some fruit tree varieties like peaches and sweet cherries. Despite being labeled hardy at lower temperatures, species like emerald arborvitae often suffer severe damage or death during winter.

Nursery inspectors from the NDDA are actively monitoring nurseries for compliance with labeling laws and other regulations concerning plant health.

For more information on non-hardy species or licensed nurseries in North Dakota visit https://www.ndda.nd.gov/nursery-program. A plant hardiness zone map can be found at http://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/.