The Botanic Garden of Western Pennsylvania will host its annual Open Gardens Day on July 13. This year, 18 gardens in Fox Chapel, Greensburg and Ligonier will be featured. There are two options for the tour: Tickets for a self-guided tour to the various gardens are $40; while the fee for a bus tour to the gardens of Greensburg, Acme and Ligonier, including a luncheon, is $90. For more information or to register call 412-444-4464.

'Magic lantern' garden tour

For a glimpse of some of Pittsburgh's 19th-century gardens, head over Wednesday to Silver Eye Center for Photography, 1015 E. Carson St., South Side.

"Uncovering Pittsburgh's Botanical Treasures" is a presentation by Jamie Shriver, assistant archivist at Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation in Oakland. Using historical photographs from the days of "magic lanterns," she will explore the history of some of Pittsburgh's most elaborate gardens. Cost is $10 for Silver Eye members and students, $15 for others. Refreshments will be served. Reservations are recommended by calling 412-431-1810 or www.silvereye.org.