Deadline nears to order trees and shrubs
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The 2009 Herkimer County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Tree and Shrub Program is currently underway. Evergreen Seedlings, three year old plants that have been grown entirely in the original seedbed, are economical, easy to plant and handle, and are a favorite for large-scale plantings. Evergreen species available this year are Austrian Pine, Balsam Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, Japanese Larch and Scotch Pine. These plants are sold for $18 in lots of 25 per species. Evergreen Transplants have a superior root system, branching is noticeable and the main stem is much more solid. Transplants are especially appealing to those landowners where small quantities of trees are needed and appearance is a major consideration. Canadian Hemlock, Colorado Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Cedar, White Pine and White Spruce transplants are available. Transplants are sold in lots of 10 for $20. Deciduous Plants shed their leaves annually at the approach of a season of cold or drought. The seeds and buds of deciduous plants provide an excellent food source for many types of wildlife during the fall and winter months. You can choose from Black Cherry, Black Walnut, Sugar Maple, White Birch and White Oak. These plants are sold for $12 in minimum lots of 10. Highbush blueberries, available in Patriot and Blue Crop varieties, provide delicious fruit and bright red autumn foliage. These are sold in bundles of 10 plants (five Patriot, five Blue Crop) for $33. Variety Packets containing a total of 10 trees, 2 each of 5 different species, are available in Flowering Tree and Shrub (American Plum, Arrowwood, Mountain Ash, Serviceberry and Rugosa Rose) and the Bird and Butterfly Packet (American Cranberry, American Elderberry, Butterfly Bush, Lilac and Sgt. Crabapple). Each packet is $16. Groundcovers, sold in bundles of 50 for $17, are low growing plants that form a dense, extensive growth and tend to prevent weeds and soil erosion. Crownvetch, Pachysandra, Periwinkle and English Ivy are available for spring planting. Wildflower Seeds, sold in 3⁄4 oz. poly bags, are available in four varieties and contain 100 percent wildflower seed. These are sold for $6.50 each. For more information, stop by the SWCD office on Route 5, East Herkimer, or call 315-866-2520, Ext. 3. Orders will be accepted through March 27. Order early for best selection.
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