What We Do
Our Roots in Newburyport
We conserve and share the love of gardening to support our community. Founded in 1944, the Newburyport Horticultural Society, Inc. is a friendly group of garden lovers and a 501(c)(3) public charity. We meet once a month to share ideas and enjoy informative horticulture programs. In summer, members often organize small-group field trips to area gardens. We host a Members’ Garden Tour in June and a Harvest Dinner in September.
Making a Local Impact
Discover our community projects around Newburyport.
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![A lush garden with a variety of green plants, purple flowers, and a staircase with a metal railing and a stone wall, partially shaded by trees.]()
Rail Trail Revitalization
We transformed a neglected stretch beneath the Low Street Rail Trail overpass from overgrown weeds into a thriving, scenic garden bed that now enhances the surrounding landscape.
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![Garden bed under maintenance with gardening tools and containers, surrounded by trees and a harbor view in the background.]()
Waterfront Trust Park Gardens
In partnership with the Waterfront Trust Commission, we renovated and continue to maintain three expansive garden beds behind the Firehouse Center for the Arts, creating a vibrant setting for residents and visitors alike.
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![A variety of colorful flowering plants in a garden planter, including purple, orange, and pink blooms, with a background of a church and power lines.]()
Bartlett Mall Beautifcation
We maintain seasonal plantings at the historic High Street water trough—a landmark since 1923—ensuring this gateway to the city remains welcoming year-round.
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![Exterior view of the Newburyport Public Library building with large windows, brick facade, and a flower bed of yellow flowers lining the sidewalk.]()
The "King Alfred" Daffodil Project
Since 2015, we have planted thousands of daffodil bulbs across the city. Highlights include a meaningful memorial tribute along the Rail Trail and beautiful spring displays at the Newburyport Public Library and March’s Hill.
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![A car tire planter with small green shrub, a dog sitting on a stone pathway, bare trees outdoors, and a blue sky in the background.]()
Rail Trail Birdbath Installation
In 2013, we created a dedicated rest area along the Clipper City Rail Trail featuring a granite bird bath, river birch tree, and boxwood plantings — a peaceful space for reflection and connection with nature.
Our projects don’t just grow plants — they grow pride, connection, and lasting beauty throughout the city. Our work can be seen — and enjoyed — throughout Newburyport.
Scholarships
We proudly invest in the next generation by awarding annual scholarships — including the Deb Lambert Scholarship — to local high school seniors pursuing studies in agriculture or horticulture.
Through monthly public programs and “Carole’s Hints” — our trusted gardening advice series — we share sustainable practices and practical expertise with hundreds of local home gardeners.
Community Education
Each December, our members volunteer their time and talents to decorate the historic Cushing House Museum for the annual Holiday Open House, bringing festive beauty to a cherished local tradition.