Ordering First-Year Seedlings at Oswald Nursery
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At Oswald Nursery, many of our first-year seedlings are sold through pre-orders before they’ve been fully grown. This is a common and trusted nursery practice that helps us plan ahead and grow exactly what our customers need.
Each spring, we start new seedlings from seed based on orders placed earlier in the year. By pre-ordering, you're reserving your spot in our growing schedule, ensuring you get the species and quantities you want.
Don’t worry—we only sell what we know we can grow, based on our seed inventory and growing capacity. Once your seedlings are strong enough and conditions are right, we’ll ship them safely to your door. You’ll receive tracking details as soon as your order is on the way.
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Pickup and Shipping
Shipping on First-Year Seedlings:
Oswald Nursery is pleased to offer shipping on 1st year seedlings. These small, plug-grown trees are ideal for efficient, low-cost shipping and are packaged with care to ensure they arrive healthy and ready to plant.
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Fall Shipping Schedule for First-Year Seedlings
Shipping Window:
October 20 – November 20 (weather permitting)
We begin shipping plug 1st year seedlings in the fall once they have fully entered dormancy—typically starting around October 20. Shipping continues through November 20, or until freezing temperatures make it unsafe to ship.
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Local Pickup Location
Pickup by Appointment Only:
1650 N Algona St, Dubuque, IA 52001, USA
Once your order is placed, a member of our team will reach out to schedule a convenient pickup time.​​
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How can I order seedlings that aren’t grown yet?We offer pre-orders for first-year seedlings, which are started from seed each spring. Your order helps us plan how many seedlings to grow for the season.
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When will my seedlings ship?Seedlings are shipped once they’re safe to travel, usually later in the growing season. We’ll notify you with tracking information when your order is on its way.
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What if a seedling I ordered doesn’t grow?In rare cases, if a crop doesn't meet our quality standards or doesn't germinate well, we’ll offer a suitable replacement, refund, or credit—whatever works best for you.
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Why pre-order instead of waiting?Pre-ordering ensures you get the exact types and quantities you need, especially for high-demand or limited-stock species.