Passion for prairies
Asphalt, turf grass and farmland replaced the prairies, wetlands and woodlands across Minnesota hundreds of years ago. Learn how to help restore native plant communities at Prairie Restorations' free Prairie Day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at 31646 128th St., Princeton, Minn.
Don Shelby will give the opening address on "Mother Nature's Army — a New Way to Think Green" at 11 a.m. Activities include presentations by native plant expert Lynn Steiner, author Stan Tekiela and others, bird and plant identification hikes, hayrides, face painting, crafts, petting zoo, live music and environmental exhibits. Visit www.prairieresto.com or call 1-800-837-5986.
Peony power
Drive out to Howard Lake to be surrounded by thousands of vibrant-colored peony blossoms at Swenson Gardens Peony Field Days, June 14-15 and 21-22. The Swenson family will share their chemical-free approach to growing peonies on their five-acre farm. Peony lovers can buy cut flowers or order bare-root plants for delivery or pickup in the fall. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, go to www.swensongardens.com.
Aromatherapy gardens
Learn how to grow herbs for cooking as well as for remedies for sunburn and as a home air freshener. The Minnesota State Horticultural Society program "Herb Gardens and Aromatherapy" is from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum, Central Park, 2525 N. Dale St., Roseville. Cost is $20, $15 for members. Includes an aromatic plant to take home. Register at www.northerngardener.org or call 651-643-3601.
Tractor show and garden tips
Kids can climb on 14 vintage tractors displayed for Pahl's Market Father's Day event, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Also scheduled are greenhouse tours, container fairy garden and terrarium demonstrations and an ice cream social. Pahl's is at 6885 160th St., Apple Valley. Call 952-431-4345.
LYNN UNDERWOOD
