The great outdoors

Summer means lots of patio parties. To give you ideas, Bachman's is holding outdoor entertaining seminars and demonstrations from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Minneapolis store, 6010 Lyndale Av. S. Topics include "Outdoor Design" tips on creative ways to arrange an outdoor room, "Show-Stopping Containers," "Summer Floral Design" and "Wow Landscaping." Cost is $10 and includes light bites, food samples and wine. Register at www.bachmans.com or call 612-861-7311.

Patio prospects

Want to turn your patio and deck into an outdoor living room? Compare fabrics, styles and prices of outdoor furniture at Gabberts' "Party on the Patio" event from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday. Representatives from Brown Jordan, Ebel, Loloi, Treasure Garden and other manufacturers will explain features of each line, including color trends and finishes, modular design and accessories, such as gas fire tables. Gabberts is in the Galleria, 69th Street and France Avenue S., Edina. Call 952-927-1500.

Walk and learn

Preserve Minneapolis offers walking and biking tours of the city's historic neighborhoods throughout the summer. Expert guides will give participants a better understanding of an area's social and architectural history through facts, stories and photos. An upcoming 1-mile tour explores "Old Highland," the Victorian- era enclave in north Minneapolis known for its numerous restored Queen Annes, at 10 a.m. June 14. Cost is $8. Many tours sell out, so reserve your spot early. Go to www.preserveminneapolis.org or call 612-695-7572.

Greengirls plant swap

Now that plants are popping, take a good, hard look at your garden. Got too many hostas and not enough coneflowers? Come to the Greengirls plant swap to refresh your mix.

From 10 a.m. to noon on May 31, the Star Tribune's garden bloggers will be hosting a cash-free plant swap, rain or shine. Our marketplace will be the small park across from the Star Tribune building (425 Portland Av. S. in downtown Minneapolis). Bring whatever you have to share — divisions of plants from your garden, extra seedlings or seeds, containers, garden tools, books or other supplies. If you can strike a deal with a fellow green-thumb, you've got a trade. We'll also be handing out gardening calendars and door prizes (while supplies last) and will provide free parking.

All transactions are between individuals. The Star Tribune makes no representations or warranties regarding trades of plants or garden supplies. The management assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage by fire, theft or any other cause to or by the vehicle while in custody of the management.

LYNN UNDERWOOD