Albany Garden Club plans annual plant exchange

ALBANY — The Albany Garden Club was forced to take a year off from its annual plant exchange last year due to the severe weather that has ravaged Albany in recent years. But the event is back on this year.

The plant exchange is scheduled from 9 a.m.-noon on April 13 at The Garden Center of Albany, located at 808 Fifth Ave. During that time, the public can bring in plants, even from their own yards, to exchange with other growers.

Garden Club members say it has been rare for there to be a shortage of items, or classifications.

“We have had 90-something plants, so it doesn’t matter if you don’t have a plant (of your own to exchange),” Ann Almgren, a member of the club, said.

Bulbs, annuals, herbs and perennials are what most participants can expect to see. A table will be available where growers can register and have their plants identified if they do not know what it is.

The plants brought in will be placed on the tables, and those who come for the event can browse and choose whatever they like.

“We will be here to (answer) questions and give advice,” Eileen Najjar, another member of the club, said. “(We see) everything from small trees. A lot of these plants are not available at big box stores unless they go to a specialty nursery.”

The event, the attendance of which is often influenced by the weather, can be moved into the Garden Center if it rains. The plants will be exchanged at no charge, but the club has supplies from its closet — including pots, vases and other supplies — it will sell at a low price.

The exchange is an event club members say they look forward to each year. It is a good way to meet new plant enthusiasts and interact with others with common interests at a time the club is looking to bring in some new blood.

“These ladies have worked so hard,” club member Joyce Bridges-Judkins said. “Some who have visited the plant exchange have asked about membership. We need young, new members.”

Club members say it may be the recovery from Hurricane Michael that draws plant lovers out.

“After a storm, people are looking for new plants to put in their yard,” Almgren said.

The club will help identify plants, even if it means pulling out reference books.

“Our knowledge is a draw — that we can identify plants for some people,” club member Mary Baynard said.

Jennifer Parks