Tom Burch,(left, back) known to gardeners as the Iris Man, and Laurie Moseley buy plants at the Columbia Garden Club Council’s Plant Exchange last Saturday. Among members helping with the sale and swap were Betty McGregor, Betty Lewis, Lori Watson, Jo Grace, Doris Kahn, and Barbara Ridgell.

April showers softened the soil, making it easier for members of the Greater Columbia Garden Club Council to dig up plants from their gardens to offer during this season’s plant exchange.

Saturday morning, cars loaded down with pots and hanging baskets were creeping out of the parking lot at the council’s headquarters adjacent to Maxcy Gregg Park. Inside, members who had volunteered for the sale finally had time to peruse what was left.

The majority of plants set out on tables during the exchange were free, given to cultivate the pastime of gardening. Members donated the free plants, but the council also purchased plants from Bunch’s, Phillip’s, Janie Hull, and Mr. Backman at a special rate.