Stretching arms of pink
Across the hills of Harvard,
Apple trees awake

We are a non-profit, hands-on garden club located in beautiful Harvard, Massachusetts . Our members have gardening skills ranging from beginner to master. In meetings and workshops, we exchange ideas and learn about new trends in landscape design, vegetable gardening, horticulture, conservation, and flower arranging. We share our knowledge and give back to the community through civic beautification and outreach programs.

Executive Officers

President: Marijke Vallaeys

Vice President: MaryAnn Paisecki

Recording Secretary: Carlene Phillips

Treasurer: Deborah O'Rourke

"I planted the last dozen tulip bulbs in the morning.

In the afternoon I went to a meeting to start a garden club.

There were fifteen ladies present. I was elected president, quite a shock!

The object of the club was to promote interest in gardens,

their management and culture and to meet for the discussion of these subjects. We formed a Program committee and, a priority for me, a Conservation committee. There were 41 charter members and annual dues were $2. The club held flower shows at the Town Hall and plant sales to exchange 'treasures' and pay for club expenses. One of the first civic activities was landscaping around the Powder House off the Common."

Looking Back: 1927

from the diary of founder Mary Abbot, October 1927

A Visit with Mary Abbot

"Mary Abbot in Her Garden" by her sister, noted artist Agnes Abbot.

President's Message:

Welcome to the website of the Garden Club of Harvard.

It’s an honor to serve as the president in the centennial year of the creation of the Garden Club. So much has changed since 1927 when Mary Abbot gathered with some ladies to talk about their gardens.

And yet much has remained the same: we gather and learn about soil, pollinators, invasives, and pests. We try to implement all the new learnings.

It will not be an easy task but I feel comfortable because I will be surrounded by active, supportive and honorary members who only want the best for our beloved Harvard. The Presidents who came before me are now my mentors, my guides and inspiration.

Let’s celebrate and let’s make our gardens beautiful areas where it’s peaceful and pleasant to be.

Our President, Marijke Vallaeys