Plant-swapping Saturday planned in Scariff

THE Irish Seed Savers’ Association in Scariff is inviting the public to their first plant swap event this weekend.

The initiative follows on from the association’s successful seed swap event, which is held yearly in March and to celebrate the summer, the organisation will hold a plant share and swap this Saturday from 12 noon to 5pm.

Speaking about the event, Geraldine Tobin, marketing co-ordinator with the Clare-based charity said, “We have run a very popular seed swap day on the first Sunday in March for the past number of years. This is where people bring spare seeds to swap and share with other gardeners.

“This year, we wanted to celebrate summer with a similar event so we are inviting all Clare gardeners with spare plants and seedlings to bring them along this Saturday to Irish Seed Savers and swap them for perhaps a vegetable plant they have not grown out.”

“It is something I do every year myself, grow on far too many of one type or flower or vegetable and I usually have lots of spare seedlings and plants at this time of year. So this is an opportunity to meet and chat with other gardeners and pick up an unusual plant for yourself,” she added.

Irish Seed Saver staff will also be on hand throughout the day giving advice and talks on growing vegetables for any gardeners who have questions.

The plant swap will be of particular interest to families as the charity has launched a new children’s trail around the gardens, while visitors can also take a free tour of the garden and orchards during the day.

“Our heritage gardens and orchards are looking great at the moment and we are sure everyone will enjoy seeing all of the new plantings in the seed gardens and polytunnels. We will also have our wood-fired pizza oven with freshly baked pizza available all day,” Ms Tobin concluded.

For more information visit www.irishseedsavers.ie or call 061 921866.