Seine-et-Marne: this Spring Plant Swap is making a comeback in May 2026, delighting gardening enthusiasts

The Spring Troc'Plantes fair is returning on May 10, 2026, at the Fontaine-le-Port Town Hall Park in Seine-et-Marne (77). Expect plant exchanges, nature activities, kids' workshops, and a photo exhibition—all geared towards nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.

Since 2018, every spring, the Fontaine-le-Port Festival Committee has been inviting amateur gardeners and nature enthusiasts to this picturesque village in Seine-et-Marne. Nestled along the banks of the Seine, about twelve kilometers from Melun, the village becomes the hub of outdoor activity. On May 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the traditional Spring Plant Swap will take place in the town hall park on rue de la Vieille Montagne. Visitors can look forward to plant exchanges, family-friendly activities, and a chance to explore local heritage.

What is a plant swap and how does it work?

The concept is as straightforward as it is friendly: come with surplus seedlings, cuttings, or plants, and leave with a selection of new varieties collected from various stalls. No need to be an expert to join in — it's the perfect chance to discover rare or unusual plants that aren’t found in traditional garden centers, shared from one green thumb to another. The Mairie Park transforms into a lively green village, where visitors meander from table to table, swapping cultivation tips and gardening stories.

What activities are planned for Troc'Plantes 2026?

The day isn't just about exchanging plants. The Smictom will be hosting a booth focused on best practices for sorting and composting — a helpful reminder for those looking to deepen their eco-friendly efforts in the garden. ARIDES, an organization specializing in succulents and desert plants, will showcase its unique collections of cacti and succulent plants — those quirky varieties that look as if they’ve come from another world.

A lovely opportunity to discover a lesser-known flora, away from the usual garden favorites. An exhibition of photographs by Roger Meunier will also be on display, adding an artistic flair to this morning dedicated to nature. Young visitors are not left out: a children's workshop is planned to inspire budding little gardeners and introduce them to the world of plants. Volunteers will also offer some tastings, giving everyone a chance to relax and chat between exchanges.

How to get to Fontaine-le-Port for the Troc'Plantes?

The Troc'Plantes takes place in the park of the Fontaine-le-Port Town Hall, located on Rue de la Vieille Montagne (77590). The village is easily accessible by car from Melun or Fontainebleau, just a few minutes away. It’s also reachable by train via Fontaine-le-Port station, which is served from Paris-Gare de Lyon. Arriving a little earlier allows visitors to enjoy the charming village, with its historic Saint-Martin church, whose XIIIth-century bell tower still overlooks the old town, and the peaceful banks of the Seine, perfect for a relaxing stroll after the event.

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