Swap and sale set for plants

New homeowners, those new to gardening or anyone who wants to add to their landscape will find plenty to browse through at the ninth annual Plant Swap and Sale.

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The event, scheduled for Sept. 20 at Savannah Rapids Pavilion, is the effort of members of the Cherokee Rose Garden Club, who have long participated in the annual spring swap and sale at Pendleton King Park in Augusta. The avid gardeners decided that a fall swap and sale would be beneficial for those gardeners looking to divide their perennials, as well as for individuals seeking to add to their garden collection.

"It's a great place to go," said Betty Crowther, one of the event organizers. "For people who are just starting their garden, or have a new home, this is a good place to start."

Crowther said the swap and sale, which is open to the public, offers reasonably priced plants, along with other garden-related items, such as birdhouses and garden art.

"There are plenty of people who come and bring their own plants to swap or sell," she said, "but you don't have to. If you just want to come and browse and shop, then you can do that, too."

The swap works on a barter-type system, where gardeners trade their wares. For those with nothing to trade, purchasing also is an option.

"It seems to be growing more popular every year," said Crowther of the event. "We were inspired to do a fall plant swap because fall is the best time to plant, although most of us get spring fever and plant then, too."

A self-confessed "plantaholic," Crowther said she usually has some of the more unusual plants to offer. This year she plans to bring variegated banana, some yellow perennial Hidden Pineapple lilies and Angel's Trumpet.

"Fall is a good time to divide perennials," she said. "It's the perfect time to divide clumps and then put some back in the ground."

The swap and sale will be held from 9 a.m. until noon in the parking lot at Savannah Rapids Pavilion, weather permitting.

Individuals wanting to bring their own plants to swap or sell should also bring a table or display equipment. Crowther said some people will sell out of the back of their vehicles.

"Any kind of plants are welcome; indoor, outdoor, anything that grows," she said. "We always have a diverse selection. You just never know what will be there."

For information on the swap and sale, call Crowther at (706) 860-3696, or reach her via e-mail at flowers848@gmail.com.

Helene Hondrum, another of the event organizers, can be contacted via email at helenehondrum@hotmail.com or at (706) 854-8215.