Prescott's Patriotic Planting: Watters Garden Center Sells Out of 250th Anniversary Legacy Trees; Second Wave Announced for July 3rd Pickup
Contact:
Ken Lain
Watters Garden Center
kendavis@wattersgardencenter.com
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Prescott's Patriotic Planting: Watters Garden Center Sells Out of 250th Anniversary Legacy Trees; Second Wave Announced for July 3rd Pickup
PRESCOTT, AZ – May 19, 2026 – The roots of American history are growing deeper across Northern Arizona this summer. Watters Garden Center is thrilled to announce that the first phase of the "Living Legacy: 250 Trees for America's 250th" initiative was a resounding success, with the community surpassing the original goal to plant 263 "Liberty Trees" in honor of the nation's upcoming Semiquincentennial.

A Regional Root System. The impact of this mission has spread far beyond the city limits of Prescott. These "Liberty Trees" are being planted as far north as Ash Fork and Seligman, over the mountains to Sedona and Cottonwood, and through the valley in Dewey. This regional effort ensures that the 250th anniversary's shade will be felt across the entire Yavapai County landscape for generations.
Community Generosity on Full Display. The program's success was bolstered by the extraordinary spirit of local residents. Eight generous donors purchased trees specifically for public spaces, including local schools and a featured legacy tree to be planted at the historic Sharlot Hall Museum.
"The community never ceases to amaze me," says Ken Lain, CEO of Garden Outfitters and Watters Garden Center. "We set out to plant 250 trees, but the enthusiasm was so great we hit 263 before we knew it. Seeing donors ensure our schools and museums share in this legacy proves that Northern Arizona doesn't just value our history, we are actively investing in our future."
A Second Chance to Grow History. Due to overwhelming demand, Watters Garden Center and The Daily Courier are officially expanding the program. A second "Living Legacy" shipment has been ordered, along with 250 additional custom-crafted commemorative Semiquincentennial medallions. Every pre-ordered tree comes with a free medallion to mark its place in history.
"There is a profound sense of continuity in planting a tree; it is a gift to the future that starts with a bit of dirt under your fingernails today," says Megan Smith, publisher of The Daily Courier. "We are proud to sponsor another round to lead us right into Independence Day."
July 3rd Pickup Event, Pre-Order Now. The second wave of trees is available for pre-order now at WattersGardenCenter.com. New varieties have been added to the collection to ensure success in our high-desert climate:
· Deodar Cedar: Arizona's fastest-growing evergreen for instant privacy.
· Midnight Express Redbud: An elegant, colorful local staple.
· Chaste Tree: A "pollinator powerhouse" for summer color.
· Seedless Desert Willow: Famous for summer-long hummingbird attraction.
· Golden Honey Locust & Purple Robe Locust: New additions known for their resilience and stunning mountain canopy.
Event Details: Pre-ordered trees can be picked up during a special Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 3, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Watters Garden Center.
To secure your piece of history and claim your free commemorative medallion, visit the Living Legacy Collection while supplies last.
About Watters Garden Center: Watters Garden Center is a family-owned botanical hub in Prescott, Arizona, specializing in mountain-hardy plants and organic, environmentally safe gardening practices. Led by Ken Lain, "The Mountain Gardener," the center is a national award-winner for horticultural excellence.