The chilly, gray days of winter are the perfect time to start thinking about your springtime garden. As you page through seed catalogs, dream of floral color schemes or consider how to fill a few bare patches on your property, take the time to contemplate adding new trees or shrubs to your property.

Trees and shrubs can do more than just enhance the beauty of your yard. They also contribute to improved air quality, sustain wildlife and help moderate the effects of the sun, wind and rain.

You can easily order new trees and shrubs right now through the 20th annual Global ReLeaf of Michigan Tree and Shrub Sale. During this on-line sale, you can choose from 23 trees, 14 shrubs and five evergreens, all of which are specially chosen for their ability to thrive.

The benefits of purchasing trees or shrubs through this sale extend beyond ease and good value: any funds generated will go towards future tree plantings across Michigan, and towards the continued operation of Global ReLeaf of Michigan.

The on-line sale continues through April 12, but you'll enjoy a 5 percent discount if you order before March 12. Discounts are also offered for purchases of multiple trees, shrubs or evergreens. This year, a limited number of larger, nursery-grown trees and shrubs from previous tree sales are available. The pick-up date is April 24; many locations are available, including Fraleigh's Landscape Nursery, 8600 Jackson Road, Dexter.

Global ReLeaf of Michigan, a grass roots, 501(c)3 not-for-profit, volunteer tree organization, encourages readers to plant trees in their communities and works with local community groups to plant trees. Please call (800) 642-7353 to learn more.