DIY apples and pumpkins
Do you head to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch every fall? The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska is offering two classes on how to grow and maintain apple trees and pumpkin patches in your own back yard. The apple class covers varieties that perform best and why dwarf trees are a good choice for home gardeners. Learn how to properly plant and prune trees and how to control pests using organic techniques. The class includes a tour of the University of Minnesota orchard, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 12.
"Beyond the Great Pumpkin" explains the history of squashes and gourds and which are the best to grow for beauty and flavor. Taste some of the recipes and pick out a cucurbit to take home. The class includes a tour of the Horticultural Research Center's pumpkin patches, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Oct. 19. Each class costs $55; $40 for members. Register at www.arboretum.umn.edu/gardeningclasses.aspx or call 952-443-1422.
Hort Society Girls Night
Sample wine, apples and honey and bring home a handcrafted fall arrangement at the Minnesota State Horticultural Society evening soiree, 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 10, 2705 Lincoln Dr., Roseville. Cost $35; $30 for members. To register, go to www.northerngardener.org.
Native plant bargains
Plant natives this fall and reap the benefits next spring. Natural Shore Technologies is offering native plants for rain gardens, prairies, shorelines and woodlands — most priced at $1. The sale is from noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 11 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12, Natural Shore Technologies, 5300 Hwy. 12, Maple Plain. Call 612-703-7581.
LYNN UNDERWOOD
