Some say the soil is the key to a successful garden while others say the sun. I believe that quality seedlings make a huge difference between gardens that produce strong crops and those that falter.

The healthiest seedlings are raised locally by savvy growers. Seedlings at 'big box' stores are often stressed from lack of care and long transport distances. Small, local farmers and gardeners, on the other hand, baby their seedlings to keep them strong and disease free.

Fortunately for Columbus gardeners, local seedling sources are plentiful. If you are still looking for seedlings and/or have some extras to share, hit up one of these plant swaps and sales:

1. Chadwick Garden Plant Sale - Friday, May 11, 7 am - 7 pm (Auction begins at 11am) and Saturday, May 12, 8 am - 3 pm (Auction begins at 11am) on the grounds of the Ohio 4-H Center located just east of 315 on the OSU campus at Lane Avenue and Fred Taylor Drive.

2. Worthington Plant Fest 9 am - 4 pm Saturday May 12 at the Village Green, corner of Rt. 161 and High Street (Rt. 23). I'll be here selling Swainway Urban Farm organic seedlings!

3. City Folk's Farm Shop Seedling Swap - 9 am - 5 pm Saturday May 19. Bring your labelled seedlings to City Folk's Farm Shop at 4760 N High St Columbus OH 43214 to swap with other growers.

4. Como Yarden Heirloom Plant Sale - 11 am - 4 pm Saturday May 19. Fantastic culinary varieties grown in organic Ohio soil.

5. Central Ohio Plant Swap - 10 am Saturday May 19 at Shelter A - Aspen (formally called #5), Hilliard Municipal Park, Hilliard, Ohio. Details on the gardenweb page.