CLARKSVILLE, Mo. — Celebrating Earth Day on April 22, seemed like a good fit for the annual Plant Swap at Clarksville Library on Highway 79 in Clarksville. The event will open with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag lead by the Clarksville V.F.W. at 10 a.m. Followed by a talk on Conservation and Earth Day by Sue Abel and a chance for those interested to form a litter patrol.

The Plant Swap offers a time for garden lovers and the extended community to meet and share. The deal is “Bring garden items, (plants, seeds, garden tools, garden decor, books, gloves, hats, boots) & place on the tables to share with neighbors and friends. In the afternoon we select items that were shared to take to our respective homes.

The day is not just about sharing plants, though the flower theme carries over to the Clopton Elementary K-5 student’s Flower Picture Art Contest. Judy Allwood will play the grand piano. Mary and Ricky Fournier promise to bring Shakespeare to the Library. Brent Engel will share garden poetry, too.

Annette Conrad, master gardener, is loaning books for researching any garden questions. The Clarksville V.F.W., with Herbert Everett, will be on hand to answer questions or requests that U.S. Veterans may have.

A Scavenger Hunt for the kids and a Garden Photo Shoot area add a fun twist. While the more adventurous may try an herbal tea, most are happy with the free lemonade. Chess and outdoor checkers are always an option.

A favorite tradition – Wonderful Door Prizes – with names drawn on the hour. Lucky recipients may choose from items arranged around the fireplace.

The gracious donors this year include Bankhead Vegetables, Gibson & Dehn Candles, Stark Bros Nursery, Three Crazy Ladies Nursery, The Rocking Horse Resale, Forrest Keeling Nursery, Flawless Ink, Karon Quick Jewelery, and Bowood Farms.

The Plant Swap 2023 is sponsored by the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce and hosted by the Clarksville Library.