DO IT NOW

When the temps start to dip into the 50s at night, it's time to bring in houseplants and any tropicals you want to overwinter. To prevent any pests from hitchhiking into the house, wash plants well before you bring them indoors. And, once inside, keep them well away from any houseplants that spent the hot, steamy summer inside, like the rest of us.

DON'T MISS IT

Whether you're in the market for tile or are just looking for a gawking good time, check out the Minnesota Tile Festival at the American Swedish Institute Saturday. Forty tile artists will show off their work, and you can also see the tile at the Turnblad mansion while you're there. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Av. S., Minneapolis. Admission is $5; children under 12 get in free. More info at 612-781-6409.

We spotted it º

Bachman's Ideas House is back for a fall installment. As part of its 125th anniversary, the gardening and gift retailer transformed the historic family home near its Minneapolis store into a model of decorating inspiration. The house has been decked for spring and summer; now it's being transformed for fall. This time around, it'll feature "modern country with an urban twist," with abundant use of wood and aged metals. Rooms will again be themed, with a "Glee"-inspired girl's bedroom, a transportation-themed boy's room and Halloween party preparation in the garage.

Nearly everything in the house, including vintage, one-of-a-kind items, will be for sale at Bachman's. Tickets are $5 (20 percent goes to charity), and visitors receive a coupon for $5 off a purchase of $25 or more at Bachman's. The house, at 5936 Lyndale Av. S., is open Thursday-Sept. 26 (closed Mondays), and again Oct. 7-10. Tickets can be purchased by calling 612-861-7311 or visiting www.bachmans.com, or at the store for that day.

CONTEST OF THE WEEK

Want to protect and preserve American's national parks at the same time as your deck or fence? The maker of Thompson's WaterSeal brand of cleaning, sealing and staining products will donate $1 to the National Park Foundation for each eligible product sold, up to $50,000. Visit www.thompsonswaterseal.com for more information or to register to win a trip to the national park of your choice, including airfare, hotel, a rental car and spending money. Or there's a "donate now" option on the website for those who just want to contribute. Thompson's products are available at many home centers and hardware stores.

Coming next week

We'll get your home and garden ready for fall -- and that other season that follows it.

MARTHA BUNS, CONNIE NELSON