For immediate release                                                             

 For Groups: Get the Dirt on Spring Planting at the Arboretum
Perfect for Book Clubs, Girlfriend Getaways, Family Fun, Team-Building

 Chanhassen, MN (April 21, 2010) - Spring has sprung a month early this year, so it's high time to get ready to plant your garden.  Who better to help you do that than the horticulturists at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum!

 The Arboretum is now taking reservations for its new especially-for-groups class, "Get the Dirt on Spring Planting." In this one-hour, hands-on class, you and your group will learn planting techniques and design philosophy from Arboretum experts. You'll also plant an assortment of flower seedlings to take home and transplant into garden beds or pots for your patio or deck. Your group will also get a sneak peak at the Arboretum's 2010 annual flower and vegetable garden designs.

 Make your reservation today to celebrate a colleague's birthday or do some team-building, bring your garden or book club, or incorporate this planting experience as part of a family get-together. The per-person fee includes Arboretum admission for all attendees, so you can come early or stay late to explore and enjoy spring-in-bloom in the gardens and around the grounds.

Call Josie or Diane at 952-443-1422 to arrange a date for your group.

 Details:

Time: 1-hour session
Dates: Pick a date between April 19 and June 11
Instructor(s): Arboretum Staff & Volunteers
Location: Arboretum Learning Center
Group Size: Minimum #20 people, maximum # 48 people
Price per person: $19(includes Arboretum gate admission)
Contact: Josie or Diane at 952-443-1422

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The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the largest public garden in the Upper Midwest and a premier northern arboretum, is part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota and was developed as a community and national resource for horticultural and environmental information, research, and public education. It is open year-round (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas) and is located 9 miles west of I-494 on Highway 5 in Chanhassen.  Gate admission is $9 adults; free for members and ages 15 and younger. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity employer and educator.  

Editors: Contact Barb DeGroot at 952-443-1459 or degro035@umn.edu for any media needs.