The idea of gardening frightens us, let alone natural gardening. We wouldn’t know where to start! Fortunately, Portlanders can get a crash course in chemical-free gardening at the Gardens of Natural Delights tour this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will have a chance to peek into beautiful backyards and get inspired by flowers, foods, native plants and wildlife habitats, all safe for both people and pets. We expect to pick up a tip or two at the demonstration gardens – with any luck we’ll be featured on the tour in a few years. While the event is free, registration is required. Call Metro Recycling Information at 503-234-3000 to sign up. More information is here.

For a guide and resources on natural gardening, click here and here.

-Lise

Images: Winners from last year’s tour photo contest: pmds0527 -- Nature's Lil Helper, taken at urban farmer's garden; mdownes -- Pond (Southeast water feature); cmslmatt -- Bella Madrona Tranquil Wetland, taken at the National Wildlife Refuge; mrsbad91 -- Ready to Plant, taken at Slow Food Mini Farm