DON'T MISS THIS It's a flutter fest at Como Park, where the popular "Blooming Butterfly" exhibit is now in its third and final year. Hundreds of butterflies from Africa, Asia and the Americas are flying freely in an indoor garden environment filled with tropical plants. About 300 butterflies will be released each week. Every day at noon, guests are invited to pay $1 to release their own personal butterfly. The free exhibit is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., through Sept. 6. For more info, go to www.comozooconservatory.org.

DO IT NOW

If you haven't added a layer of mulch to your gardens, now would be a good time to do it. Mulch (such as dried grass clippings, straw, cocoa bean hulls, wood chips or compost) helps prevent weeds from sprouting, insulates the soil from excessive heat and holds in moisture. However, if you have a garden that's prone to being damp, you might want to hold off mulching for a bit.

WORK FOR "SWEAT EQUITY"

Need to update that 1970s kitchen? Do it on the DIY Network's home improvement show "Sweat Equity" and get $4,000 toward the project. DIY is looking for handy, energetic homeowners who live within 25 miles of downtown Minneapolis. Requirements include appearing on camera for five half days, basic do-it-yourself experience and a contribution of a minimum of $5,000 for your room makeover. A professional designer and area realtors will give you tips on how to maximize your investment. To apply, email sweatequitycasting@magneticproductions.com and include a description and photo of the space, daytime phone, e-mail address, photo of yourself and approximate budget.

BOTANICAL BEAUTIES

Outdoor plants aren't the only ones in bloom. The Great River Chapter of Botanical Artists will display a collection of plant-inspired artwork at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts through July 22. A free opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at 2240 North Shore Dr., Wayzata. The organization's mission is to create appreciation for historical and contemporary botanical art. Visit www.minnetonkaarts.org.