Bobby Jensen

ST PAUL, Minn. — While at the Minnesota State Fair, we ran into our friend, Jenny Thull, from the U of M Landscape Arboretum. Jenny was one of the Judges for the Amateur wine-making competition. She explained to us what it takes to be a ribbon winner. The competition features 22 different categories, including: Red, white, and rosé table wines, sparkling wine, fruit wines (apple, cherry, rhubarb, elderberry, etc.), dessert and fortified wines.

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Gardeners come in two sorts… those that start from seed and those that buy plants. Perhaps a combination is best. Last week we talked about vegetables, this week it's flowers. Five varieties are easy-peasy to start from seed and five have a reputation for being difficult to start from seed. The easy list is first! Marigolds: They germinate quickly and the seeds themselves are easy to handle.

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn — Gardeners come in two sorts… those that start from seed and those that buy plants. Perhaps a combination is best. There are some vegetables that grow very easily from seed. Growing from seeds can save a lot of money compared to buying plants. Try these five easy-to-grow vegetables from seed: Cucumbers: Whether you like to make pickles or slice them up fresh, cucumbers are quick to sprout and will be climbing up your trellis in no time.