Blue ribbon scarecrows

Who needs Pinterest? Get inspired by nature to design your entry for this year's Scarecrows in the Garden fall display and contest at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska. The juried exhibit of original, one-of-a-kind creations of scarecrows and other garden folk will be showcased on the Arb grounds from Sept. 21 through Nov. 3, as part of the arboretum's autumn celebration. The exterior of your scarecrow should be fashioned from dried or fresh materials found in nature that weather well. However, plastic stuffing is OK. Anyone can enter — including artists, community organizations, businesses, individuals, families and teams of all ages. Arboretum passes will be awarded for each entry. Prizes will be given in two categories: Arboretum Staff Choice and People's Choice.

There is no entry fee. Applications are due by Friday and the fully assembled scarecrows must be delivered to the arboretum's Margot Picnic Shelter area between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. by Sept. 17. Winners will be announced Oct. 31.

For more information and to download a registration form, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu, or call 952-443-1400.

Kids in the garden

Bachman's Kids Gardening Series kicks off with "Aquaponics" on Sept. 14 at 6010 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis. The workshops include "energy" games, interactive learning and hands-on projects related to sustainable garden practices. The series is at 10 and 11 a.m. every Saturday through Oct. 5. For ages 5-14. Cost is $15 per workshop. To register, go to www.bachmans.com.

LYNN UNDERWOOD