What is a conservation gardener?
Conservation is the act of protecting natural resources for current and future generations. A conservation gardener makes thoughtful decisions about the choice of plantings and soil improvements, implements sustainable maintenance practices, and approaches landscape design with an eye on ethical sourcing and the ecological impact of materials installed.
As a Master Ecologist, I apply my knowledge to private and public spaces to build beautiful, bountiful, and biodiverse gardens and landscapes.
building plant communities that balance biodiversity and beauty
Roots Below Ground. Beauty Above.
Landscape design is akin to a musical composition with its crescendos and choruses. Embracing garden design principles makes a garden sing. Drift plantings aren’t only stunning but help pollinators find their next meal or resting place. Trees add structure and act as focal points, provide a place for the eyes to rest. Even a small tree can play an important role in hosting and sustaining wildlife. Rhythm and repetition ground a space and provide ecologically functions. Did you know hummingbirds are surprisingly competitive? By creating multiple, distinct areas filled with the flowers they love, you can attract these tiny feathered friends and keep them happier.
Biodiversity is crucial and easily achievable whether your design style is minimalist, maximalist, or somewhere between. Diverse plantscapes feed pollinators and improve soil conditions for long-term, chemical-free maintenance in your garden. Monthly seasons of interest are both aesthetically pleasing and good for wildlife.
Want to blend beauty with sustainability in your outdoor space? Request a in person or virtual consultation now.
Get a behind-the-scenes look of a native woodland garden I designed in Manhattan and how it’s shaped by a lush variety of textures and leaf shapes — the foundational concept of every garden I design.
"The Conservation Gardener solved two problems with one solution. We had a difficult area of lawn that was nearly impossible to mow with large, raised existing tree roots and stumps. We also wanted to attract more pollinators to the backyard. Amanda seeded in a pollinator garden over the entire area. By replacing the grass, we can now enjoy Monarchs instead of mowing."
- Kate, Private Residence, Essex County, NJ
"Amanda creates beautiful renderings and detailed site-specific designs. We are very grateful that she was able to team up with NYRP to reimagine a woodland garden in Highbridge Park. She has extensive knowledge of native plants and a passion for bridging design and ecology."
- Jason Smith, Director Northern Manhattan Parks, New York Restoration Project, NYC
“Our church had a native plant garden that was neglected and full of invasive plants. After a few years of scratching our heads, Amanda came in with clear vision and a crisp plan. After a couple of volunteer work days, our native plant garden is flourishing again. Amanda made a forgotten patch of land come to life through thoughtful and professional care.”
- The Reverend John Flack, Our Saviour’s Atonement, Manhattan
Garden and Landscape Design Services
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Landscape Design
A thoughtfully crafted outdoor space can be a place to escape, entertain friends, or enjoy family. By integrating garden rooms, sustainable hardscapes, and eco-friendly plantings, we can create a seamless connection between your home and the natural world. My bespoke landscape designs are tailored to reflect your personal style while respecting the unique characteristics of your site.
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Garden Design
Going beyond aesthetics, my designs work with nature — not against it. Understanding the natural cycles of your ecoregion and your land’s microclimates allows dynamic plantings to help alleviate erosion, flooding, and other environmental issues. From stunning cottage-style borders to serene Japanese gardens, integrating native plants sync your outdoor space the natural world.
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Consulting
Are you interested in integrating native plants and sustainable features into your private or public space? I can guide you step-by-step on cultivating a beautiful, biodiverse, and accessible outdoor space for all ages. My areas of interest include water conservation, wildlife support, native plant advocacy, and engaging people in urban green spaces with ecological storytelling,
Shade is Never a Problem
I specialize in woodland plantings, soft landings under trees, and shaded borders nestled against homes and other structures.
I see “difficult” spaces as opportunities to create habitat for pollinators and wildlife, as well as address the flooding, runoff, or drainage issues plaguing a landscape.
Meet The Conservation Gardener
Hi! I’m Amanda. I’m a passionate advocate for sustainable design and fostering biodiversity. A lifelong gardener, I’m dedicated to creating landscapes that harmonize with nature. As a Master Ecologist, I specialize in transforming gardens into thriving ecosystems that support native plants, wildlife, and healthy living. My work integrates green building practices and design principles to enhancing the beauty and functionality of outdoor spaces.
Before founding The Conservation Gardener, I served as the lead designer at a prominent design and build firm, where I developed a deep understanding of both managing large-scale projects and the meaningful details that bring a space to life. My background in interior design helps me create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living. I blend artistry with practicality to serve the needs of my clients—whether for a family, an individual, a business, or a public setting — to design highly functional and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Whether transforming a small urban garden into a pollinator haven, designing expansive woodland landscapes, or creating immersive outdoor spaces that serve as extensions of my clients’ homes, I bring my expertise, creativity, and commitment to sustainability to every project.
Request a Consultation
In person and virtual consultations available.
Dig into my blog: You, Me, and the Plants
