10 things not to miss at the Md. home show

Mild weather has piqued thoughts of remodeling, landscaping and home decor for Marylanders. Green thumbers and do-it-yourselfers will find no shortage of inspiration for spring projects at the Maryland Home & Garden Show, beginning this weekend at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium.

Designers, contractors, landscapers and suppliers will offer home improvement ideas for everything from decks and patios to kitchens and spas. Here are 10 things not to miss as you tour the show's beautifully landscaped gardens and more than 300 exhibitors.

1. Joey Green The best-selling author and guru of little-known uses for brand-name products will host seminars this weekend, demonstrating how to clean carpets with diapers, soothe neck pain with rice and polish furniture with Spam.

2. Garden reads This year's show theme is "Books in Bloom," with 17 gardens inspired by settings from literature, including "Under the Tuscan Sun" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Use your smartphone to capture QR codes in each garden to see information about the featured titles from the Baltimore County Public Library website.

3. Interior designer Q&A Can't decide between matte and high-gloss interior paint? Bring your design problems to the show as members of the American Society of Interior Designers offer free 20-minute, one-on-one consultations.

4. Ogle orchids Shop for your plants at the Orchid Show & Sale. The show takes place in Horticulture Hall the second weekend of the show, March 9-11.

5. Name that flower Floral designs, horticulture entries and educational exhibits will be showcased by the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland during a mystery-themed flower show March 9-11. Members will also offer secrets to arranging and maintaining long-lasting flower displays.

6. Miniature trees Ready to incorporate harmony, peace and prosperity into your life? The Baltimore Bonsai Club will show how to cultivate and care for miniature trees.

7. Spring decor Spruce up your home with pieces from the Maryland Spring Craft Show, featuring 125 craftspeople offering handmade jewelry, pottery and accessories.

8. Master gardening On March 9, Norman Cohen of Master Gardeners will give tips on keeping your vegetable plants healthy and productive. And on March 10, Valley View Farm's Carrie Engle will talk about which houseplants are best for clean indoor air. You can also stock up on bulbs, plants, flowers and seeds.

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10 things not to miss at the Md. home show