The vision for the agricultural acreage at Nagog Hill is to create a container-based native tree and shrub farm that supports both ecological restoration and local horticulture.
Rather than using traditional field nursery practices that mine soil and damage root systems, the farm will grow trees using modern air-pruning containers, pot-in-pot systems, and RootMaker containers. These systems encourage the development of strong, fibrous root systems and allow trees to be grown in containers filled with composted wood-chip potting mixes.

This method protects the existing soil on site while producing healthier and more resilient trees.

Demand for native plants has increased dramatically in recent years as people become more aware of their ecological importance. Across Greater Boston, municipalities and developers are increasingly required to use native species for tree replacement, habitat restoration, and wetland projects.

However, many important native species—such as hickories, oaks, sourwood, black walnut, and chestnut—are difficult to grow using conventional nursery systems. Air-pruning container production offers a solution, allowing these trees to develop strong root systems while meeting the growing demand for native plants.

Over time, the orchard landscape will transition from rows of aging fruit trees into rows of diverse native trees and shrubs, creating a productive farm that also supports wildlife, pollinators, and local ecosystems.