Spring fling at the Arb Gardeners can gather tips on growing vegetables, saving seeds, choosing irises for cold climates and other topics at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Spring Expo, March 9 to 11. "Learning to Grow, Growing to Learn" features three days of discussion, lectures, book-signings and networking among garden lovers. Local plant societies, landscapers and garden stores will have displays showcasing the newest gardening trends.
A three-day pass is $35 for members and $45 for nonmembers and a one-day pass is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers; pass includes arboretum admission and parking. To register, go to www.arboretum.umn.edu/springexpo2012.aspx or call 952-443-1422.
Learn to garden at the library Free Master Gardener programs are scheduled at metro-area Hennepin County libraries through March. Topics include best plants for tough sites, pruning trees and shrubs, growing herbs and berries and container and rain gardening. Master Gardeners also will answer questions. Some programs require advance registration. For a schedule, call 612-543-5669 or go to www.hclib.org and type "Master Gardener" in the search box.
Sowing seeds It's time to cultivate vegetable seeds indoors so they'll be ready to plant outdoors this spring.
Gertens is holding free seed starting classes at 10 a.m. Saturdays in March. Gertens experts also will answer questions and talk about ways to maximize your site. 5500 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights. Call 651-450-1501.
