This presentation focuses on plants native to the New England region. We’ll review trees, shrubs, and perennials that are adapted to local conditions and climates. Benefits such as reduced maintenance and support for wildlife will be discussed. Guidance on incorporating native plants into existing landscapes will also be included.
Gretel Anspach is a data-driven, retired systems engineer who brings an engineer’s precision to every horticultural endeavor. A mathematics graduate of MIT, she spent her career at Raytheon before channeling her analytical mindset into the world of horticulture. She currently serves as a trustee of Massachusetts Horticultural Society and is a Lifetime Master Gardener, recognized with MMGA’s 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award. With over two decades of experience in food pantry gardening, Gretel first led Raytheon’s company garden initiative, then went on to independently establish and maintain a 20,000-square-foot production garden serving the Marlborough and Maynard food pantries. Gretel is known for demystifying the science behind gardening, combining her background in math and systems thinking with a passion for sharing knowledge. Her work bridges the gap between data and dirt—proving that logical thinking and healthy soil can grow more than just plants.
