Garden party

Noerenberg Gardens is throwing an evening garden party among the blooming phlox, bee balm, daylilies, Veronica and foxglove, 6 to 8 p.m. July 25 on Lake Minnetonka. Events include guided tours of the grounds, music, activities for children, historical displays and door prizes. Admission is $5. Noerenberg Gardens, 2840 North Shore Dr., Orono. Call 763-559-6700.

Feta and phlox

Fine food and wine will be served among the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum grounds at the annual "Toast & Taste" benefit, 6 to 9 p.m. July 25. The menu includes lamb skewers, turkey-feta-spinach sliders, chocolate cake and other fresh cuisine prepared by top Twin Cities chefs and restaurants. Regional wineries and breweries will pour samples of wines and ales and offer tips on tasting and pairing. Activities include live music and strolls through the arboretum gardens in their July glory. Tickets $75, starts at 7 p.m.; $125 pre-party patron reception at 6 p.m. To reserve, call 612-625-9875 or visit www.arboretum.umn.edu/toastandtaste.aspx.

Garden-in-a-Box

Help the Minnesota State Horticultural Society's Garden-in-a-Box program by buying a cedar raised-bed garden box at their location at 2705 Lincoln Dr., Roseville. The Garden-in-a-Box program donates boxes and educational materials to nonprofits and schools to teach people how to grow their own fresh produce and experience the benefits of gardening. The kits includes 4-foot-by-4-foot boxes made of western red cedar, soil and vegetable plants. For assembly, the boards slide together. Cost is $109.99. For information, visit www.northerngardener.org or call 651-643-3601.

LYNN UNDERWOOD