Flower and Plant Exchange

© By Deborah S. Tukua
www.hollycreekbooks.com

Instead of purchasing plants, consider hosting a plant trade day with friends and neighbors.

There are several ways to accomplish a plant trade. One way is to make a list of neighbors, friends and acquaintances who currently have flowers, herbs and or other plants in quantities to share and that would be willing to participate. To keep the garden gathering cozy and simple, select six people to invite. Send out invitations, asking your guests to bring six starter plants from their yard or garden. The plants should be kept moist and contain sufficient roots to successfully replant. Ask each guest to label each plant and give planting instructions so the receivers will know whether to plant in direct sun or shade. The recipients will also want to know when the flower will bloom.

With each guest bringing starter plants from her garden, everyone will receive healthy, tried and true plants acclimated to their climate to take home and plant. Sharing from your garden and your gardening knowledge is a great way to make friends and beautify your community, with little money invested.

And don’t forget to serve a cool slice of pie and lemonade in a cozy spot in your garden or terrace before the ‘green thumbs’ depart to give your guests an opportunity to exchange gardening tips.

~Great gardening advice abounds in Deborah Tukua and Vicki West’s book, Pearls of Garden Wisdom. Buy one now for Mother’s Day! Just click on the FATV shop.

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