Laura Roberts, Director of Horticulture

After two decades, Laura Roberts is as deeply rooted in the Van Vleck House & Gardens as the Natchez Crape Myrtle she added when she first began working here.

Under Laura’s guidance, the property has seen diversification of its horticultural palette,  prioritizing year-round interest and ecological value, alongside the historic framework of original specimens. Laura designed and implemented the garden’s wildflower meadow and led its recent expansion, transforming part of the Upper Lawn into a vibrant habitat. She has implemented a range of sustainable practices, including composting and low-impact lawn care. Laura, an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist and a New Jersey Licensed Tree Expert, has established a comprehensive tree inventory to support proactive management and preservation of the garden’s diverse canopy. In addition to maintaining the health and beauty of the gardens, Laura is deeply committed to connecting people with plants. She shares her professional knowledge and her personal joy through horticultural, botanical, and creative classes for adults and mentorship of high school interns.