Robinson Preserve Sale Focuses On Native Christmas Trees, Sustainability

BRADENTON, FL — Those interested in a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to a commercial live Christmas tree can purchase native trees at the Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science and Technology or NEST at the Robinson Preserve Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Shoppers can choose between a native red cedar or a silver buttonwood at the preserve, which is located at 840 99th Street NW in Bradenton, according to the Facebook event page.

After the holidays, you can bring the tree back to the NEST to be planted at a Manatee County preserve as part of its ongoing habitat restoration.

The red cedar and silver buttonwood are native to the Eastern United States. They serve as a source of food for many songbirds, including the cedar waxwing and Eastern bluebird, and are used by birds for nesting and roosting, the NEST said.

Trees range in price from $8 to $150 based on pot size and tree species. Pots range from 1 gallon to 30 gallons in size.

Oyster shell ornaments will also be sold for $3 each or two for $5.

All proceeds go to the management and maintenance of the county’s preserve system.

Residents can also donate or sponsor a tree if you don’t have a place for it or just want to purchase one for the preserve.