Kentucky Utilities Company will join other local Earth Day activities across the state by giving away free Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) tree seedlings while supplies last. Mature Witch hazel trees have yellow blossoms in the late fall and are native to Kentucky.
About 3,000 seedlings will be given away on April 22 at the following locations and customer service centers:
- Georgetown, 205 W. Clinton St.
- Versailles, 250 Crossfield Dr.
- Shelbyville, 1100 Main St.
- Danville, 198 W. Broadway
- Winchester, 2745 New Boonesboro Rd. (George Rogers Clark High School Greenhouse)
- Manchester City Hall, 207 Church St.
- Norton, VA, 1000 Park Avenue, NW.
Customers may pick up two free seedlings beginning at 9 a.m. Giveaways will take place until the seedling supply lasts, which is usually until late morning.
The giveaway program is one way our company supports the Call Before You Dig (811) initiative and encourages planting native trees in appropriate locations through The Right Tree in The Right Place program.
Falling tree limbs on lines is one of the major causes of power outages. Witch hazel trees are relatively small (approximately 15 feet) at maturity, so planting that tree in the right place means the tree will grow without limbs reaching the electric lines. A brochure that describes “Right Tree, Right Place” and the “Plan Before You Plant” recommendations will be given to customers along with the seedlings.
Planting the seedlings in the proper location will help reduce energy costs thanks to the shade they provide as they grow.
