FARMINGTON – Because of such a long winter and a tough economy, the Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District is extending the early deadline for shrub orders until Wednesday, April 1.

Early orders insure more variety of plant availability. New this year are edible perennials such as asparagus, rhubarb and horse radish. There are varieties of blueberries and raspberries. Apple and other fruit trees are in demand and many, such as Cortland, are in limited supply.

Ornamental shrubs such as lilacs make an ideal investment, according to Rosetta Thompson, district manager. This year, the district has yellow, blue and more traditional purple varieties.

Shrub brochures are available online at www.franklincswcd.org, or visit the office at 107 Park St. For more information, call 778-4279. Pick-up dates are Friday and Saturday, May 8 and 9.

The district is also accepting orders for compost bins and rain barrels. Contact the district for more information.