As part of a new Plant Swap program at the Moores Memorial Library in Christiana, patrons now have an opportunity to pick up a plant to grow at home or donate cuttings of plants they would like to share. There is no charge to participate in the Plant Swap, and it is open to all library visitors.

The Plant Swap was established by library patron Allison Weiser, who learned about a similar program at the Malvern Public Library through a Facebook group that she belongs to, titled "Plants of Chester County, PA."

"I have certain plants that grow and grow. When I trim them, instead of throwing (the cuttings) away, I wanted to find some place to take them," said Weiser, explaining how the program came about. "I saw posts about the Malvern Library plant swap, and I thought I would ask about one at our library. That's how it started - me having excess cuttings and no place to put them."

Items in the Plant Swap, which was established in late summer, can be found on a windowsill at the library. A sign next to the cuttings explains how the program works. It asks participants to take a plant or cutting and to leave the container behind. Those who would like to give a plant are asked to place the cutting in a three-inch pot or smaller container they are willing to part with. Labels will be provided.

Weiser suggests that people bring cuttings in water instead of soil using empty containers such as water bottles or baby food jars. "Water is easier because it takes up less space than a flowerpot," she said. "If you like a plant, just take it and bring something back (when you can). There are some extra jars there and paper, string and a pen if you need to make a label for the plant."

Plants that are currently available include several coleuses, an African violet and an aloe vera plant. "We have some coleuses that are really pretty," said Weiser. "It's neat to see the different plants that are out there, especially those you are not familiar with."

She said the Plant Swap promotes community sharing and is ideal for people who want to pursue the horticulture hobby in an inexpensive way. "Some people may be looking for that plant and don't want to buy it. (At the Plant Swap), they can get one for free," said Weiser. "And if they want to get rid some of their plants, they can bring theirs in as well."

Providing assistance with the Plant Swap is library staff member Regina Hill. "She is the main in-house plant specialist, and she (monitors the plants) and adds plants while she is here," Weiser added.

Moores Memorial Library is located at 9 W. Slokom Ave., Christiana. The Plant Swap is available during library hours: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.