I'm hosting one in Rutherfordton, NC on August 27th. This is near the Biltmore, Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway . . many lovely sights to see. So far 71 people have responded. I look very forward to meeting many GW people, friends I've come to know 'on here', no Newbie will go home empty handed, working on how to keep confusion to a minimum now (going to send an Update letter so prearranged swaps/rides can be set up now, also want name tags worn -- any suggestions very welcome) especially since August is a common VAC month (gardeners divide perennials, some will wish to totally do away with plants to make space for new cultivars, go through seeds to plan next year's garden and much more), many are taking the week or weekend to come to the swap from afar and then visit friends in the area and/or VAC. All is open to swap -- plants, seeds, tools, birdhouses, gourds, magazines, books . . . if you can fit it in the car and want to trade may be the time. Katie

Hi 888, Basically a Host sets and publicizes a date, site/hours, and simply provides space for at least a dozen people to spread out their stuff. It's good to confirm that a few greenhouse gardeners can be there early, to ensure a range of good stuff. Tables are nice, but not necessary. Shade and watering cans (or hose), are nice - and the Host usually decides what to do with leftover stuff. For example, perhaps invite new homeowner neighbors to come the next day and take all thwey want, or Post a list here on GardenWeb, Craigs, or Donate all to a non-profit. Some ideas are in this Post, but you certainly can keep it simple. (One of the best Swaps I attend each Spring is advertised as a 1-hour Swap, with no food involved) http://faq.gardenweb.com/faq/lists/okgard/2004013529013835.html People with lists here may pre-arrange Trades, and try to early, with the pre-arranged, labelled, items. You can invite a Garden club to put a listing in their newsletter...perhaps the Fuscia people - but hey'll need to know all sorts of items are welcome. Several people on this GW list can help to publicize your Swap, and we often have our own email lists for this purpose. These people include OldHerb, NeonKatz, pdxJules and my new friends Lee and Ellen...who just started a monthly garden Club that includes frequent Member Swaps. Saturday the 15th is the next outing and Swap if you want to join us. Let me know when I can help with invitations! Jules Here is a link that might be useful: Some Swap ideas - many *Optional*

I've got my truck loaded, too. I hope we have a large turnout, but I don't have as many plants this year as usual. It's just been so darned cold and wet! Things are just now beginning to dare to stick their noses (er, buds)out. I'm bringing a few tomato, pepper, cabbage, broccoli and lettuce plants as well as a few perennials.

I'm new to plant exchanges -- how does it work? Do you just show up with plants you have to swap? What if I see things I want but no one wants what I have, or the other way around... could someone explain the general procedure to me? Thanks!!