One good source of fine seedlings and small transplants, is from our County Soil and Water Conservation Districts. These are intended for conservation purposes only, are native species that have been chosen for their value for wildlife food and cover, hardiness in our region, water resource protection, and ornamental values as well.
We can order from Putnam County or Dutchess County, or both, provided that we are prepared to pick up our plants on April 19 or April 20. They must be ordered and paid for in advance.
All the information and order forms are available at the District web sites: www.putnamcountyny.com, or to www.dutchessswcd.org
This year Oblong will be planting some elderberry bushes, which produce great flowers and attractive fruits that the birds love. Basswood is a fine tree to plant in alkaline soils in the Harlem Valley, honey bees love it. It is the American native linden.
You can also order bird nesting boxes and roosts for bats, which are constructed to standards that are proven to work for the species, with complete instructions (no assembly required).
Deadline for ordering is March 22, 2013. So take advantage of the offers as soon as you can.
###
Sibyll Gilbert is a resident of Pawling, a member of the Baseline Studies Advisory Committee, Vice President of The Oblong Land Conservancy, and a member of the Pawling Conservation Advisory Board.