Maren Gunning, Gardener II

I joined the Arnold Arboretum in 2023 with prior experience working as a climbing arborist for a residential urban tree care company throughout Eastern and Central Massachusetts. Although I have always had a passion for wild spaces and their inhabitants, it took me many years to come to the realization that I could make a career out of caring for them. I received my degree in Mathematics and Statistics from Vassar College in 2021, but knew by this time that my true calling was in the field of professional horticulture.

As a Gardener II, I work closely with Ryan Devlin, caring for the magnolias, lindens, horse chestnuts, hickories, and the area surrounding the Weld Hill research building. Working with Ryan has been a master class in native plant species and invasive species management. I am also fortunate to work with the other talented members of the horticulture team, as well as with the Hunnewell interns and Norfolk Agricultural High School interns. As a Boston native, the Arboretum is the setting of some of my happiest childhood memories. I am beyond thrilled to be able to help preserve it for future generations.