Sustainable Landscape Progress at North Star House

We recently hosted a free community workshop with horticultural designer Molly Breen of New Wave Green, focusing on how to design native plant landscapes using Netafim irrigation systems. The event brought together local gardeners, volunteers, and community members interested in sustainable, water-wise landscaping.

During the workshop, Molly walked participants through the fundamentals of Netafim drip irrigation: how it works, why it’s ideal for native plants, and how thoughtful irrigation design can dramatically improve plant health and long-term success. She demonstrated layout planning, soil preparation, installation techniques, and key tips for maintenance and troubleshooting.

Attendees also had the chance to see real examples on the North Star House grounds, including how Netafim is being incorporated into our ongoing hedgerow project. The hands-on component gave everyone a clearer understanding of how to apply these concepts in their own gardens or larger properties.

Following the workshop, we also hosted a pop-up planting day on the grounds. With guidance from Molly and a generous donation of 100 native plants from The Xerces Society, volunteers helped expand our hedgerow, add new pollinator-supporting species, and prepare soil and irrigation areas to give each plant the best chance to thrive.

Together, the workshop and planting day created a meaningful connection between education and on-the-ground action; supporting our long-term landscape goals while strengthening the ecological health of the North Star House grounds.

We’re grateful to Molly for sharing her expertise, to The Xerces Society for supporting our landscape work, and to every volunteer who joined us. More learning opportunities and community work days are ahead, and we look forward to offering additional workshops with local professionals who help us bring sustainable, hands-on learning to the community.