Blue ribbon lilies and hostas
The North Star Lily Society and Minnesota Hosta Society will showcase members' carefully cultivated plants at Bachman's. The "Lily Magic" show, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 17, features floral designs inspired by Harry Potter and Houdini. Lily varieties include shade-tolerant martagons, Asiatic lilies, trumpet lilies, Longiflorum Asiatics (LA) and Oriental trumpets (Orienpet). Attendees also can vote for their favorite lily photographs.
At the Hosta Show, growers will display the popular shade-loving plants in containers, troughs, educational displays and artistically designed arrangements. View cut hosta leaves, both classic and old varieties, along with new introductions, from noon to 4 p.m. July 23-24. Society members will answer growing and care questions. The free shows are at Bachman's, 6010 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls. Call 612-861-7600.
Green kitchen makeover
If you're updating your kitchen, why not make it as eco-friendly as you can? Natural Built Home is holding a free class on "Green Kitchen Remodel" from 10 to 11:30 a.m. July 23 at 4020 Minnehaha Av. S., Mpls. Learn about environmentally friendly features, the design process, budgets, rebates and affordable design tips. Bring photos or measurements of your space. Register at naturalbuilthome.com and click on "Education Center" or call 612-605-7999.
Celebrating pollinators
The Andover Pollinator Awareness Project is hosting two free events this week. On July 21 from 6 to 9 p.m., a Pollinator Party will be held on the north lawn of the Andover YMCA, 15200 Hanson Blvd. NW. Attractions will include bee displays, activities for kids, native plants, and experts to assist with pollinator-friendly landscaping and refreshments.
On July 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be a self-guided garden tour. Tour-goers can view different types of pollinator-friendly landscapes at seven homes, featuring straw-bale gardening, shade and native plantings, rain gardens, beekeeping and a prairie landscape. Hosts and master gardeners will be hand at each home to answer questions. A tour map is available online at pollinatorawareness.wordpress.com. Maps also can be picked up at Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Blvd., during weekday business hours.
