DARLINGTON — Harvest season is here, and now is the time to participate in the Fall Plant Swap taking place September 21 through 25, at the Johnson Public Library, 131 E. Catherine Street, Darlington. In addition, it is also time to gather seeds for the Seed Library, for those who find that they have too many.
“As always, you’re welcome to bring something to swap, take something you need, or simply stop by and see what’s available,” shares Janet Trout, Library Director of the Johnson Public Library. “Just bring a healthy plant, cutting, seeds, or garden extras to share, or come grab something new for your own garden!”
The community is encouraged to share any overabundance of seeds, which help add to the collection of seeds at the Seed Library. The variety of seeds offered shares in the wealth of new information, which helps the community grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The seeds are all natural and are good for the environment.
“We’ve continued to grow the program through our plant swap,” shares Trout. “Since starting the Seed Library, we’ve held both a spring and fall plant swap as a way to promote the Seed Library while bringing the community together.”
The library has empty seed packets for those who are willing to share their extras. Empty packets provide a place to identify the seeds being shared, along with any notes that would help with planting and growing, such as lighting, watering, and extra steps or proven methods. Gardeners are encouraged to participate in this year’s fall swap.
The seed donations help people of all ages learn from each other. Teaching and learning cultivate growth, which is promoted by working together. The community is welcome to bring a variety of items, such as bulbs, houseplants, cuttings, seeds, the ever-popular Hosta plant, or other garden extras they’d like to pass along. The connection helps grow more than plants; it grows bonds through shared interests. Plants need water, sunshine, air, food, and a good place to thrive, much like people in any community.
For some, the curiosity of growing plants might be a new experience. People of all ages are encouraged to learn how to grow seeds into healthy plants or perhaps learn how to care for a new variety of plant species. For those with questions, the Johnson Public Library holds an entire seed library, in addition to a wealth of knowledge as far as getting things started. If the curiosities aren’t finding a book on a shelf, or need further instructions, the librarians have their own experiences that they are willing to share with others.
It is the hope that this fall, those who have been successful can share their abundance during this year’s harvest. Sharing the ‘tried and true’ methods may spark a connection which may encourage growth. Learning from one another can be enjoyed no matter the age or experience level. Most everyone who inquires may be encouraged to give growing plants from all-natural seeds a try.
For more information about the Plant Swap or the Seed Library, contact the Johnson Public Library, in person or call 776-4171.
