Seedling sales hit almost 92 million seedlings in 2020, 3 million more than the year before according to the latest research by Te Uru Rākau - New Zealand Forest Service.

The findings are an annual survey of tree stock sales from commercial forestry nurseries, called the Provisional Estimates of Tree Stock Sales and Forest Planting.

'The increase in seedling sales is positive, as it shows continued strong interest in tree planting,” says Te Uru Rākau acting deputy director-general Henry Weston

'Tree planting is a vital tool in efforts to boost environmental gains, and help New Zealand to reach its economic potential, particularly our recovery from COVID-19,” he says.

Tree stock sales reported in 2020 totalled 91.9 million seedlings, compared to 88.8 million sold in 2019. The main increase was in radiata pine where sales rose by 4.4 million seedlings.

'Our estimates suggest the increase in 2020 could see seedling sales reach 100 million seedlings in 2021.”

Heney says Te Uru Rākau's research also shows the majority of planting in New Zealand was on class 6,7 and 8 land, which isn't considered productive farmland.

'It's important to consider planting the right tree in the right place, as it can be used to stabilise land, stop erosion and create additional income for farmers or foresters through things like the Emissions Trading Scheme.

'Te Uru Rākau - New Zealand Forest Service would like to acknowledge all of the nursery managers, forest owners, managers, and consultants who supplied information for the survey.”