Business Details
46 Years
experience
Organic Landscaping Experts in Edgartown, MA
Working Earth Organic Gardening & Landscaping Organic Gardening and Landscaping has been a trusted name in sustainable landscaping for over 35 years. Founded in 1980, we pioneered organic land care on Martha's Vineyard, combining ecological expertise with artistic design. Our team of certified professionals specializes in organic lawn programs, biological soil management, and holistic landscape solutions. With decades of experience, we offer full-service design, construction, and maintenance that respects the Island's unique environment. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our advanced techniques like geomancy and dowsing, which deepen our connection to the land. We maintain long-term relationships with clients and team members, ensuring consistent quality and personalized service.Our expertise extends to sustainable irrigation, stonework, and tree care, guided by industry leaders like Harvard-trained landscape architect Derek Bowser. As stewards of the environment, we prioritize regenerative practices that protect local ecosystems. Our dedication to community is reflected in Jude Villa's leadership roles with Sail MV and Camp Jabberwocky. With Working Earth Organic Gardening & Landscaping Organic Gardening and Landscaping, clients receive not just landscaping services, but a partnership committed to environmental harmony and lasting beauty.
Services
Site Design
Stonework
Driveways
Lawn Care Program
Garden Maintenance
Irrigation
Tree Care
Containers & Boxes
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience in organic land care on Martha's Vineyard
- Our team includes certified Tree Ambassadors and NOFA-accredited professionals
- We pioneered organic lawn programs that protect local waterways and ecosystems
- Our Harvard-trained landscape architect brings 25 years of design expertise
- We maintain long-term relationships with clients through consistent quality service
Associations and certifications
- NOFA Organic Land Care Professionals
Services
Organic Lawn Program
Our comprehensive organic lawn program combines soil analysis with biological treatments to create healthy, sustainable turf. Using precise application methods developed with expert turf consultant Charles Bramhall, we reduce chemical exposure while maintaining lawn quality. The program includes seasonal aeration, thatching, and customized mowing schedules to adapt to environmental conditions.
Landscape Design
Our full-service landscape design process begins with concept development and continues through permitting and implementation. Led by Harvard-trained landscape architect Derek Bowser, our team creates functional, aesthetically pleasing designs that harmonize with the natural environment. We focus on long-term sustainability while incorporating unique elements like stonework and specialized irrigation systems.
Stonework
We specialize in creating durable, visually appealing stonework that forms the backbone of any landscape design. Our expertise includes retaining walls, patios, walkways, and decorative features using locally sourced materials. Each project combines traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering to ensure lasting beauty and functionality in Martha's Vineyard's unique climate.
Tree Care
Our professional tree care services include pruning, health assessments, and transplanting using specialized tree spade equipment. We work with certified arborists to maintain tree health while enhancing property aesthetics. The program focuses on preserving mature trees and integrating them into overall landscape designs for ecological balance.
Garden Maintenance
Our year-round garden maintenance ensures vibrant, healthy plantings through organic feeding programs and expert horticultural practices. The service includes seasonal planting rotations, pest management without synthetic chemicals, and soil enrichment techniques. With over three decades of experience, we've developed specialized methods for maintaining color and texture throughout Martha's Vineyard's growing season.
People
Jude Villa
Founder & President
Jude founded Working Earth Organic Gardening & Landscaping Organic Gardening and Landscaping in 1980, pioneering organic landscaping on Martha's Vineyard. A certified Tree Ambassador and NOFA-accredited professional, she combines traditional techniques with innovative practices like geomancy. Her leadership emphasizes environmental stewardship and community involvement through roles with local organizations.
Andrew Kelly
Operational Manager
Andrew has managed operations at Working Earth Organic Gardening & Landscaping Organic Gardening and Landscaping for 15+ years. A licensed pesticide applicator and landscape contracting graduate, he brings technical expertise to projects. As an EMT and volunteer firefighter, he demonstrates the company's commitment to community service while maintaining industry-leading standards.
Rebecca Brown
Project Manager & Designer
Rebecca leads design projects with 20 years of experience in regenerative land care. A certified NOFA Organic Land Care Professional, she specializes in soil management and sustainable agriculture. Her background includes developing innovative land rehabilitation companies utilizing goat grazing techniques before returning to Martha's Vineyard.
Derek Bowser
Landscape Architect
Derek heads the design team with 25 years of experience in landscape architecture. A Harvard graduate, he brings technical precision to creative solutions. His expertise ensures that all designs balance aesthetic appeal with functional requirements while maintaining environmental sustainability across Martha's Vineyard properties.
Questions
What makes your landscaping services organic?
We use certified organic practices that avoid synthetic chemicals. Our programs focus on soil health, biological treatments, and sustainable maintenance techniques that protect local ecosystems and waterways.
Do you offer both design and maintenance services?
Yes, we provide full-service landscaping including initial design, construction, and ongoing maintenance. Our team handles projects from concept through implementation and seasonal upkeep.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Martha's Vineyard, with expertise in Edgartown's unique environmental conditions. Our local knowledge ensures landscape solutions that thrive in the Island's specific climate and soil conditions.
Are your team members certified professionals?
Yes, our team includes NOFA-certified organic land care professionals, certified Tree Ambassadors, and licensed pesticide applicators. We maintain industry certifications through ongoing education and training.
How do you handle irrigation systems?
We design and install efficient irrigation systems tailored to each property's needs. Our approach focuses on water conservation while ensuring optimal plant health through customized scheduling and system design.
