Wild-type American Chestnuts

What is a wild-type American chestnut?
A wild-type American chestnut is an American chestnut from natural populations in the native range of the species, as determined through phenotypic and/or genotypic analysis. Wild-type American chestnut has no expected level of blight resistance. 

 
 

Members have first access to TACF's wild-type American chestnut seedling sale that takes place in early March. The bareroot seedlings are sold in bundles of 5, 10, and 25 and typically are 12" to 18" in height. The sale is accessed by a private link or by phone orders on the day of the sale. If stock is available, the sale opens to the public mid-March. 

This is a very popular program and the seedlings sell out quickly. Distribution range is only available to states east of the Mississippi (no exceptions). Orders will be mailed by mid-April.

Pricing includes shipping:
5 seedlings – $35.00
10 seedlings – $70.00
25 seedlings – $175.00


Proceeds from this program help fund research to restore the American chestnut.

Why plant wild-type American chestnut seedlings?

  • To preserve native germplasm, which preserves genetic diversity for future breeding
  • To learn about site viability and best practices for future restoration plantings
  • Growing the trees adds biodiversity to forests where other tree species are dying
  • When transgenic pollen becomes available and applied to wild-type seedlings, offspring can show blight tolerance
  • Some will live long enough to produce seeds for harvest and consumption for people and wildlife alike 
    • For viable seeds, two or more trees should be planted in close proximity

 

For guidance on planting American chestnut, please review TACF's planting fact sheet here.