Well, why not? Cities have set out decorated cows, pigs and sofas! Why not wheelbarrows? As part of the Garden Walk and Faire in Utica, Illinois, June 12 and 14, 2010, there’s a wheelbarrow decorating contest — and the winners will be on display during the event, sponsored by the Utica Garden Club.

Hours for the tour are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 12, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 13. In addition to viewing the “Secret Gardens” on the ninth annual walk, there’ll be a plant sale and craft faire at the corner of Mill and Church streets in downtown Utica (where you also stop by to pick up tickets for the tour — $8 each — plus maps and directions).

From cool, shady, woodland foliage to glorious flowering annuals and perennials, private gardens in Utica and the surrounding area will be open for this self-guided tour. Natural and man-made landscaping and water features will be highlighted along with formal and rustic garden decorations.

If you want to see the gardens by trolley, you’ll need to make a reservation at Starved Rock Lodge; call 800:868-7625, ext. 386. Trolley tickets are $18 per person, and this option is available only for a 9 a.m. departure on June 12.