As the summer season comes to a close, our horticulture interns prepare to conclude their time at Madison Square Park. This summer, we hosted two interns who assisted with garden care. These interns were tasked with caring for the plants in Lily Kwong’s Gardens of Renewal, pruning the redbud collection, as well as caring for seasonal displays. 

The goal with the internship program is to support young horticulturalist professionals in their budding careers, providing as much experience as possible in public garden stewardship. While practicing horticulture in the busy atmosphere of the park, our interns were fully immersed in caring for a green oasis, and learned about public horticulture’s community impact.

We had the pleasure of hosting two interns this summer, Claudia Thomson and Sasha Gilchrist. Both brought in fresh energy and perspectives to our team. Here’s what they had to say about their experience.

Claudia:

“I’ve always cared about the environment and I became interested in horticulture as a form of stewardship that also brings beauty into public space. My favorite plant was the mountain laurel, Kalmia latifolia that blooms in the garden bed along Broadway and at the entrance of 26th & Madison in the spring. A native species with a unique bloom structure was exciting for me to come across, in both the pink and white shades. I found spending my summer in such a dynamic park and with staff that does such a thoughtful job taking care of the space incredibly enjoyable and educational.”

Sasha:

“My time at Madison Square Park Conservancy reminded me of why I fell in love with horticulture. I never get tired of the awe and wonder that plants can inspire. My favorite plant to work with this season was the hydrangeas! Seeing patrons light up with curiosity and excitement, and learning from the passionate and knowledgeable horticulture staff has made this a heartwarming and fulfilling experience.  I’m so grateful to have met such wonderful people and to have been part of the team that cares for this beloved space.”

We are excited to continue expanding the intern program in the fall and winter, giving entry level horticulturalists an opportunity to experience what horticulture looks like in the dormant season. While many people believe that horticulture is strictly summer work, there is considerable work that takes place during the cold months. Interns will participate in park-wide pruning for our smaller understory trees, leaf chipping to sustainably create a mulch layer for the gardens and lawn, and updating our plant inventory and collection database. Supporting the next generation of horticulturalists in New York City will result in a work force dedicated to preserving our city’s green spaces!