Our Philosophy: Cultivating Beauty, Honoring Nature

At Solstice Gardens, we approach every garden with deep respect for the natural intelligence of the land and the changing seasons. Our work is guided by a powerful, integrated philosophy that weaves together:

• The intrinsic beauty and aesthetics of native plant communities, which form the backbone of a resilient and beautiful Vineyard landscape. We specialize in incorporating pollinator favorite plants to support local insect and bird populations.

• The rhythmic cycle of the seasons that defines life on the Vineyard.

• Cutting-edge, science-based soil microbiology and regenerative practices.

We believe that a truly beautiful garden is a balanced ecosystem.

The Science of Soil: Beyond the Baseline

Soil is the indispensable foundation of every landscape. Our commitment to exceptional gardening goes beyond conventional methods. Our company moves past the baseline assessment of soil chemistry to dive into the living heart of the garden: the soil biology. We analyze and enhance the microbial life responsible for crucial natural processes by testing the soil on your property for its specific needs and move forward with a curated approach to long term soil health. 

By nurturing the microbial community, we ensure your plants are vigorous, resilient, and less dependent on external inputs.

Leadership and Vision

Founded by Katie Houghton, Solstice Gardens is dedicated to excellence in the art and science of horticulture. Having received her education from Stockbridge School of Agriculture at UMass Amherst, Katie also spent time farming on Martha's Vineyard before delving into fine gardening. 

At the core of her philosophy is a mission to invite people to view their environments as a living, breathing whole, weaving the principles of intuitive design with a deeper practice of tending to the soul of the land.

This blend of formal education, visionary philosophy, and practical, on-island experience ensures that every project we undertake is executed with skill, precision, and an eye toward long-term sustainability.

We look forward to helping your garden flourish.