State Forest Nursery storefront - Native plant nursery in Ames, Iowa
State Forest Nursery native plants and garden center - Photo 2
State Forest Nursery native plants and garden center - Photo 3
State Forest Nursery native plants and garden center - Photo 4
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State Forest Nursery

Ames, IowaEst. 1937

4.6 (11 reviews)

About

The Iowa DNR State Forest Nursery has been a cornerstone of conservation and native plant restoration in Iowa since 1937. Located in Ames, this trusted public nursery specializes in providing high-quality native seedlings to support wildlife habitat, forest restoration, and ecological conservation throughout the state. With an extensive selection of native Iowa hardwoods, small trees, shrubs, conifers, and seed packets, the nursery empowers landowners and conservation professionals to restore Iowa's natural landscapes. The nursery offers competitive bulk discounts for large-scale restoration projects, making native plant restoration accessible and affordable for customers ordering 500 or more seedlings.

Specializations

Native Iowa HardwoodsForest RestorationWildlife Habitat RestorationNative ShrubsNative ConifersNative Seed PacketsConservation Seedlings

Services Offered

online ordering
wildlife planting guidance
bulk discounts for large orders

Reviews

Brian B.Google Review

Very poor customer service. Was sent the wrong trees and nobody had any desire to make it right. I've planted thousands of trees in my lifetime but sure won't deal with these people again.

Tim M.Google Review

I had a great experience with the Iowa State Forest Nursery. The trees showed up as promised. They were in better condition and shape than I had expected. I have bought several trees and these were superior to all others. What a great Iowa Resource Treasure.

Anne W.Google Review

I ordered 25 aronia bushes, they came in great condition and way bigger than I expected. They all had multiple branches with multiple leaf buds, almost no broken branches (even though they had to be shipped to MO). Very happy with my purchase and will definitely order again next year!

Bethany B.Google Review

I ordered black chokecherries, and they arrived when promised, and I was so pleased with how healthy they were. Although they were bare root plants, they had lots of healthy leaves, and the roots were so long and deep that I feel confident they will take. Thank you for this service!

Rhonda S.Google Review

This has to be THE best opportunity to purchase fully rooted trees and bushes in the state! I've purchased hybrid willow "rooted" pieces before for $3.00 each. There is no comparison to the rooted system on these that I just purchased from State Farm Nursery. The plum trees are also very well rooted. I'm beyond excited to get that planted today. And, for $1.00 each, I WILL be back!!!

Contact Info

2404 S Duff Ave

Ames, Iowa 50010

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Hours

monday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
tuesday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
wednesday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
thursday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
friday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
saturdayClosed
sundayClosed

Business Info

Type:retail, mail-order, online