The Beautification Board of the City of Gulf Shores celebrates Arbor Day on Saturday, February 22, 2014. Five different tree specimens are offered to permanent residents living in the City of Gulf Shores. Arbor Day Chairman, Rodney Powell, advises residents to arrive at 8:00 a.m. to ensure getting the trees of choice. Proof of residency is required.
All trees are potted in one-gallon containers and are ready for planting. Residents may choose a total of four trees but only one tree from a tree category. The six varieties of trees offered this year includes: American Snowbell, Chickasaw Plum, Dahoon Holly, Redbud, Southern Red Cedar, and Sweetshurb.
Planting instructions are offered and staff members of the Gulf Shores Landscaping Department are available to answer planting questions. Harlan Harrison, City of Gulf Shores Landscaping Supervisor, offers citizens information on Beach Vitex. This invasive plant specimen is quickly invading the beaches of Gulf Shores and surrounding areas destroying sea turtle habitat as well as eroding the sand along the beach.
Submitted by the Gulf Shores Beautification Board.