In 2012 GPLT began restoration of the original Kistner Center gardens with the help of the Gwinnett County Master Gardener Association (GCMGA) and the Georgia Master Gardener Association (GMGA) through grants and volunteer master gardeners.

The GPLT garden projects were designed to restore the gardens Mary artistically established and to promote key concepts emphasized by GPLT: 1) highlight the use of native plants for a beautiful garden effect and habitat value; and 2) emphasize the importance of removing exotic invasives – including species used for ornamental purposes. Mary, while an avid gardener and nature lover, gardened in a day when the concept of invasiveness may not have been well understood.

GPLT has a monthly Garden Work Day where volunteer gardeners have helped refurbish and then maintain the gardens to continue Mary's legacy.