Native plant tour
Gather garden ideas at three Mendota Heights locations showcasing native flowers, shrubs, grasses and trees. Gardens will be open during the Wild Ones (Twin Cities chapter) event from 10:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 14. Featured gardens will include inviting habitats for birds and wildlife, plus whimsical artwork displayed in the beds. One gardener converted her conventional lawn to a native landscape for the health of the small lake behind her home. Sun-loving prairie plants thrive there in the summer. Another homeowner created an outdoor space that evokes images of the North Shore, as well as native grasses and plants found in northern Dakota County. Pick up maps for the free tour at the first stop at 1704 Vicki Lane, Mendota Heights. For details, go to wildonestwincities.org.
Plymouth garden tour
The Friends of the Plymouth Library will host Gorgeous Gardens of Plymouth, a benefit tour on July 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event provides an opportunity for garden enthusiasts to see five local gardens, visit with the homeowners and ask questions. Highlights include a 3.6-acre estate with a furnished livable treehouse; a Medicine Lake garden with a native-plant meadow; a patio garden featuring over 40 potted geraniums; a huge garden with a wild cattail marsh and rock garden and a spring-fed pond; and a garden with 350 varieties of hosta, as well as many types of lilies. The Bachman's store in Plymouth will sell advance tickets, $10, during normal business hours. Tickets the day of the tour are $15. Free for ages 12 and under. The tour will be held rain or shine.
Flower show
Lilies on Parade, the North Star Lily Society's annual show, will feature a wide variety of lilies. Visitors are also encouraged to vote in the lily photography contest, 1 to 5 p.m. July 14; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 15. Free. Bachman's, 6010 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls. bachmans.com.
Kitchen makeovers
Remodeling a kitchen can be a daunting task. Learn the basics of budgeting and planning with a free seminar at Castle Building & Remodeling. Instructors will discuss the design process, homeowner participation, timelines and design tips. 10 a.m. July 21. Advance registration at castlebri.com. 4020 Minnehaha Av. S., Mpls.
MELISSA WALKER
