The Unsung Horticulturalist of New York

Meet the woman behind the city's greenery

Tulips outside the New York Public Library in the spring. Courtesy of Maureen Hackett

NEW YORK—At a glance, this city is a loud, concrete jungle. However, take a closer look and one will discover the lush greenery and colorful flowers that are intrinsic to institutions like Gracie Mansion and the New York Public Library.

The woman to thank for the beauty among so much chaos is the unsung horticulturalist of New York, Maureen Hackett.