Where Are Moon Trees Planted?

In the late 1960s, NASA sent a series of successful missions to the moon. One of the experiments they conducted on the lunar surface was to grow seeds from various tree species. These became popularly known as moon trees, and today they are some of the most iconic trees in the world.

Planting Moon Trees Across America

After the success of the Apollo missions, the US Forest Service took responsibility for caring for the moon trees. It began a program of planting the seedlings across America, in various locations. Starting in 1975, they planted moon trees in all 50 states of America, including at the White House and the US Capitol.

Why Plant Moon Trees?

The purpose of the moon tree planting program was to celebrate the end of the lunar missions and to promote the importance of trees for our ecosystem. The program was also meant to demonstrate how trees are capable of surviving harsh conditions, such as those on the moon.

What Types of Moon Trees Are There?

The Apollo missions carried seeds for five different tree species to the moon. They were sycamore, sweetgum, Douglas fir, loblolly pine, and redwood. Today, most of the moon trees that have been found surviving in various locations are sycamores.

Where Can You Find Moon Trees Today?

Around the world, various efforts have been made to find and preserve the surviving moon trees. In America, many of them can still be found in their original locations, planted by the US Forest Service. Others have been transplanted or have reproduced through their own natural growth.

If you're interested in seeing a moon tree for yourself, there are several places you can visit. The White House, Washington Monument, and Stanford University are just a few of the institutions that have planted moon trees. Additionally, many arboretums and botanical gardens have specimens on display.

The Legacy of Moon Trees

Moon trees have become an important symbol of the Apollo missions and of the value of trees for our planet. They remain a unique reminder of the incredible feats of exploration that NASA achieved in the 1960s and 70s, and of the resilience of the natural world. Today, they serve as a living connection to a remarkable moment in human history.