For 20 years, this gorgeous home outside of Boston, Massachusetts, has been under the care of NatureWorks Landscape Services, Inc., based in Wellesley, Massachusetts. With over 2.5 acres, the property requires lawn care, fine gardening, snow removal, and plenty of pruning. While the standards have remained the same, the site has evolved, bringing challenges and triumphs along the way. Their efforts led to the Awards of Excellence Exterior Landscape Management Decade Award.
Since taking over, NatureWorks has dealt with one consistent problem: bentgrass. While only parts of the lawn are affected, the issue has been severe in wet areas. To combat this issue, the irrigation system is closely monitored to limit moisture in certain zones. If the bentgrass becomes out of control in a given spot, they replace the turf to restore a uniform appearance.
Severe weather has also been a challenge. For many years, two 30+’ pear trees have marked the home’s front entrance. During a summer storm, one of the trees was uprooted. NatureWorks and the owner had a decision to make: They could replace or rescue the damaged tree. Another option was replacing both trees. Since removing one tree would hinder the symmetry of the entrance, both parties decided it was best to rescue the damaged tree and preserve the view.
The process began with root pruning in areas that had been uprooted. Soon afterwards, a biostimulant was used to encourage new root growth. Lastly, a crane was brought in to raise the tree and replant it in its original spot. Canopy pruning was also performed to reduce shock from the move, while cables were attached to hold the tree in place. The tree not only survived but is still growing strong today.
Besides the pear trees, the site boasts a collection of other ornamental trees, from Japanese maples to evergreens. A mixed border along the road requires extensive pruning to keep the shrubs dense, maintain their shape, and provide privacy.
Given the property’s complex nature, NatureWorks has found ways to improve efficiency, especially in landscape maintenance. A robotic mower handles 76% of the lawn, allowing the team to focus on detailed pruning and string trimming. The robot has been used here for nearly a decade, so the team is well-versed in maintaining and using it. Additionally, this mower helps reduce noise to reduce its impact on the property. Soil testing is done each year, along with a topdressing of compost to pinpoint the exact needs of the turf.
From the entrance to the backyard, the formal theme is evident. Boxwoods mark the front path and patios. The backyard features an oasis of conifers, hydrangeas, and groundcovers. Every two weeks, a fine gardening crew goes through the property to perform detailed work on the annuals and perennials. Another big task is pruning the wisteria on the pergola and the boxwood to keep them in check along the pathways.
In a typical year, the team can work almost 1,200 hours on this property, giving them ample time to refine their process and become familiar with the intricate details of this landscape.
Interested in participating in the Awards of Excellence? Enter your projects by July 31, 2026.
