“It all started with a couple of neighbors gathering to swap plants and seedlings from our yards

in St. Paul. The exchange went from a simple swap, to an annual neighborhood event.” (Kathi

Polley, an organizer of the new exchange in Cook County).

And so it continues. This Saturday, the first ever Cook County Plant Exchange will take place at

the Community Center parking lot in Grand Marais. The event is for everyone in Cook County to

gather and exchange plants, seedling and knowledge. The event is free, and no money will

change hands. While the exchange is about sharing and gardening, the organizers see it as

being about a lot more.

Cook County has a rich history of beautiful gardens and avid gardeners. So a plant exchange

seems like a natural fit for the area. However, beyond that we see this as a great opportunity to

celebrate community, connection, creativity, and Spring which is even more important in these

troubled times. It is also a way for neighbors to bond through their shared love of gardening.

-Bring healthy plants and seedlings that are planted in individual containers to exchange.

-Mark your plants and include information on sunlight, watering and soil needs.

-Masks are a MUST

-Social Distance rules will apply, there may be limits of how many people can be in the shopping area.
-Designated areas will be marked for plants and parking.
- Pack up when you run out of plants or at 11 am.

-No money is exchanged

-No need to bring a plant to take one home