September 19, 2024

Christie Dustman - Design Principles Make the Wow

Are you worried you don’t have the “design” gene? There is good news according to Christie. Gardens that just feel good to be in are actually the result of hours of thoughtful planning. Christie will identify and discuss the design principles and spatial guidelines that are the scaffold for successful landscape design.

​

October 10, 2024

Ruth Evans and Shannon Fitzgerald - Pot au Fleur

Cut flowers are lovely, but all too soon, they fade. Potted plants are beautiful too, but usually less eye catching. Ruth and Shannon will create designs demonstrating the type and Principles of Design that they have in mind, showing the best qualities of the cut flower and the potted plant brought together in stunning combinations.

​

November 20, 2024
Joan Butler – Birdscaping: Home Sweet Habitat

With beautifully illustrated slides, Joan will explore with us the importance of creating welcoming habitats for birds through thoughtful landscape choices, including native plants that are vital for food and nesting sites. We will learn about the benefits and joys of creating layered gardens designed for avian and human habitats.

December 19, 2024
Carol Cohen – A Walk Through the Garden with Eleanor Roosevelt

Author and historian, Carol will entertain in the voice of Eleanor Roosevelt, her establishment of a famous Victory Garden on the White House lawn and who played key roles in feeding the nation during the war. Carol will also discuss the history of Victory Gardens and their significance in today’s world.

​

January 16, 2025

Betsy Szymczak – Plant Parenthood

This program focuses on the propagation of popular houseplants. Betsy will demonstrate various techniques such as stem, leaf and petiole cuttings as well as houseplant pruning and grooming. Betsy’s bonus to us will be tips on early spring propagation of popular summer bedding plants.

​

February 20, 2025

Gretel Anspach – Vegetable Gardening 101

Anyone can have a vegetable garden and with Gretel we will look at different types of vegetable gardens, layouts, variety choices and growing techniques. They will give us information on bringing fresh food to the table, teaching your children and grandchildren where food comes from and even beautifying your yard.

​

March 20, 2025 

Cheryl Monroe - The Art of the Vignette

In this fun design presentation, Cheryl will illustrate how to effectively use small spaces in the garden to convey a sense of drama and personal style, using color, design features and objets d’art to draw the eye and create fabulous vignettes that will have your visitors admiring your savoir-faire.

​

April 17, 2025

Stacey Lee – Sustainable Peonies

Experienced floral designer and sustainability advocate, Stacey Lee, will present everything about peonies, including new hybrids, tree peonies, the growing American market, home cultivation, splitting roots and dry storage.

​

May 8, 2025

DIY Program

Members share their expertise on a topic of interest.  Bring your favorite website, tool, critter ridder, and other great information to share. 

​

June  2025 (Date TBD) 

NGC Annual Plant Sale

This annual highlight of Natick’s spring season held at the Natick Community-Senior Center is widely advertised and always draws a crowd. Members’ and friends’ donations of potted plants generate funds for club activities, programs and three scholarships to graduating high school students pursuing their vision of an improved environment.

​

June 8, 2025 (date TBD) 

Year-End Recognition Celebration

Annual celebration and installation of new officers and committee chairs. Details TBD!