Hosted by the Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society, “Plant Swap with Holly Kozelsky” will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023., at the Historic Henry County Courthouse. A potluck luncheon will begin inside at 12:00 P.M. with the plant swap following at 1:00 P.M. on the beautiful brick Plaza.

40 FREE perennials – phlox (a native plant easy to grow and common at old house sites), purple coneflower (echinacea), or iris – will be given away, one per person while supplies last.

Attendees will trade plants, seeds, cuttings, divisions, tools, pots, fun, and conversation with other interested gardeners. However, folks do NOT have to bring items to trade to participate as gardeners love nothing better than to share plants and advice. New gardeners are especially welcome. Parking is available around the old courthouse and in the Bridge Street and Depot Street parking lots. Volunteers will be available to help load and unload.

The origins of plant swaps can be traced back to the late 19th century when American gardeners began exchanging plants and seeds with each other. This informal system of sharing allowed gardeners to expand their collections and diversify their gardens. Over time, these small-scale exchanges grew into organized events with the first documented plant swap taking place in 1945 in New Jersey. Since then, plant swaps have grown in popularity, becoming a vital component of the gardening community across the country.

There is no charge to participate or attend, made possible by corporate sponsors, Carter Bank & Trust and The Lester Group. The Historic Henry County Courthouse is fully handicap accessible. The Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center & Museum will be open during the event.