The American Horticultural Society

Explore Hawaii with the AHS! Embark on a breathtaking journey to the awe-inspiring islands of Kauai and Oahu from April 27 to May 3, 2025. Discover a wide range of natural habitats and fascinating plants. Tour lush botanical gardens on Kauai and marvel at breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. Visit iconic sites on Oahu including Pearl Harbor and experience a Lei Day festival in Honolulu. Immerse yourself in the Lyons Arboretum and the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden. AHS Host Keith Tomlinson will provide insights from his time as a student at the University of Hawaii and his work in the Botany Department at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. An optional post-trip extension on the Big Island is also available.

To learn more about the program and register, visit https://ahsgardening.org/hawaii2025

Please welcome Salisbury University Arboretum to our Reciprocal Garden Network! Salisbury University

Located in the heart of the Eastern Shore, Salisbury University Arboretum boasts the most diverse collection of plant grounds locally. The 200-acre campus includes over 3,000 trees and an impressive repository of various plant species. Their history dates back to 1920, when Salisbury University was founded and celebrated its first Arbor Day by planting Halloway Hall’s Liden trees. Explore and discover why Salisbury University was named as one of the nations “50 Most Amazing University Arboretums”. https://www.salisbury.edu/discover-su/arboretum/

Photo Credit: Salisbury University

Let’s talk Acanthus Mollis, also known as bear’s breeches!

The acanthus mollis is a part of the acanthaceae family, a flowering plant family that with an embryo that bears two plant seeds, which mostly includes herbs and shrubs. This beautiful plant is native to the Mediterranean but can also be found in southern Europe and other areas from June to August.

Its dramatic flower spikes, adorned with hooded blooms in shades of pink mauve (and sometimes white), attract bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to your space.

Acanthus mollis thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it perfect for creating lush, verdant corners in your outdoor oasis.

(Source: www.missouribotanicalgarden.org)

Photo via Peter Tajat

NEW AHS TRAVEL PROGRAM! Join the AHS on an enchanting journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Naples, Sorrento, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast in May 2025, when the springtime sun casts its magic, transforming seaside gardens into a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues. Delve into Naples’ rich culture and history, revel in the flower-laden streets of Sorrento, and delight in the dramatic vistas of the Amalfi Coast. On an optional pre-trip extension, explore iconic archaeological sites around the Bay of Naples, including Pompeii and Paestum.

To learn more about the program and register, visit https://ahsgardening.org/italy2025

Happy July 4th from the American Horticultural Society!

AHS and River Farm will be closed on Thursday, July 4th. River Farm will reopen to the public on Friday, July 5th and AHS offices will reopen Monday, July 8.

On June 20, American Horticultural Society’s CEO Suzanne Leporte and Scott Plein, chairman of the American Horticultural Society’s Board of Directors, attended Amazon’s HQ2 Butterfly Garden opening. This new garden is designed to provide nectar and pollen sources for butterflies after the population fell nearly 60% between 2023 and 2024. The public can enjoy benches, tables and chairs while spending time in the garden, which is free to visit.

Read more here: https://www.arlingtonmagazine.com/butterfly-garden-amazon-met-par

Photos via Arlington Magazine and Suzanne Leporte

Please welcome the University of Guelph Arboretum to our Reciprocal Garden Network! The Arboretum, University of Guelph

Located in Guelph Ontario, Canada on the campus of the University of Guelph, this arboretum spans an astonishing 400-acres. Established in 1970, this long-standing campus houses more than 2000 different taxa of woody plants.

Learn more at arboretum.uoguelph.ca.

Photo Credit: www.scottarboretum.org

The American Horticultural Society proudly honors and recognizes Juneteenth National Independence Day, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

AHS offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. We will reopen for regular hours on Thursday, June 20. River Farm will be open to the public during normal visiting hours.

Join the AHS December 3-8 and experience an unforgettable kickoff to the holiday season on a captivating journey to Bermuda! Explore its breathtaking natural and cultural marvels and enjoy curator-led, behind-the-scenes tours. Delight in visits to iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Church and the enchanting "Christmas Walkabout" in St. George’s—a UNESCO World Heritage Site magically transformed into a festive wonderland. Learn more: https://ahsgardening.org/bermuda2024/

Happy National Pollinator Week (June 17-23)!

We're buzzing with excitement as we celebrate the incredible pollinators that make our world bloom. From bees and butterflies to beetles and moths, these tiny superheroes play a crucial role in our ecosystem, ensuring the pollination of plants that sustain life.

Learn more about pollinators and The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens at https://huntington.org/verso/buzzy-fuzzy-and-wild-celebrating-peak-pollinator-season.

Photo via Paul Tukey

An inspirational guide to understanding plants and gardens, the book and talk are based on Bloom’s experience in creating his own spectacular six-acre garden, Foggy Bottom. From an empty meadow in 1966, this renowned horticulturist’s lifetime creation demonstrates stunning combinations and seasonal interest. Learn how to masterfully use perennials, grasses, and shrubs, as well as the background of how this project inspired Bloom’s signature Give Away Gardens.

Don’t miss this virtual talk led by Adrian Bloom, award winning lifelong gardener with over 10 books, several TV appearances, and 26 gold medals.

Lifelong Learning Educational Session
“Foggy Bottom – A Garden to Share”

Friday, June 14
2-3 PM ET
Virtual

$15 AHS Members/$20 Non-members

Ahsgardening.org/lifelong-learning

Registration closes June 21 for AHS’ 32nd annual National Children & Youth Garden Symposium, to be held on Chicago’s North Shore from July 8-11 in partnership with the Chicago Botanic Garden. Reinvigorate your passion to educate a new generation about gardening and discover why NCYGS is one of the country’s longest-running, most prestigious gardening conferences for youth educators! Register now!

Ahsgardening.org/ncygs2024

Ball Horticultural Chicago Botanic Garden KidsGardening.org Engage by Cell

Discover the secrets of flowering plants' evolution in a groundbreaking study in a recent New York Times article! 🌿 Uncover surprising insights about scientists' new family tree and other fascinating discoveries. Dive deeper into the story and unlock the mysteries of botanical evolution. Click the link to read more: https://tinyurl.com/3v9vw2ns

Photo credit: Paul Tukey

At The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), students, supported by Re:wild Your Campus and an anonymous donor, spearheaded a pioneering initiative under Professor Shakow's guidance. They're pioneering an organic lawn program and establishing a test plot for native and edible plants. Despite the gloomy weather, they kicked off their initiative by clearing weeds and planting over 70 native plants.

TCNJ, like many other institutions, is prioritizing organic gardening and biodiversity with Re:wild's assistance.

Are you implementing similar practices in your community? Share your experiences below!

Photo credit: npr.org

Wishing a Happy Mother's Day to all who cherish children – their own or others, those who nurture gardens and creative projects, those who take care of our world in any way. Thank you.

- Suzanne B. Laporte
President & CEO
American Horticultural Society

Join us Wednesday, May 22 for an inspiring Lifelong Learning session with Perfect Earth Project's Edwina von Gal and Toshi Yano! Secure your tickets today: https://ahsgardening.org/lifelong-learning-2/designing-for-nature/

Clear your calendars on May 22 at 7 pm! You won't want to miss the American Horticultural Society's virtual webinar Designing for Nature with Edwina von Gal and Toshi Yano.⁠
⁠
Reserve your spot by clicking the link in bio. ⁠
⁠https://perfectearthproject.org/events/

The American Horticultural Society inspires a culture of gardening and horticultural practices that creates and sustains healthy, beautiful communities and a livable planet. On Arbor Day, we draw attention to the power of trees to sustain and transform and invite you to connect with nature, whether you plant a tree or spend some moments in silent appreciation for their role on our planet.

With spring in full gear and summer close behind, the warm weather denotes ‘baby season’ for wildlife and companion animals. While some animals may need help, others are participating in normal behavior for their species. The Humane Society of the United States has written an in-depth article on how to identify if young animals are truly in need of human intervention.

AHS members can read more in the March/April issue of The American Gardener.

Non-AHS members can read the Humane Society’s article: https://tinyurl.com/2hyukw2m

For Earth Day, we are excited to announce the four 2024 winners of our annual Environmental Awards. The awards recognize exhibits of horticultural excellence that best demonstrate the bond between horticulture and the environment while inspiring viewers to beautify their home and community through skillful design and appropriate plant material.

It is our mission this Earth Day, and every day, to inspire a culture of gardening and horticultural practices that creates and sustains healthy, beautiful communities and a livable planet.

🌱 Connecticut Flower and Garden Show (February 20-23) Winner: Landscape #2 by Aqua Scapes of CT, LLC (Aqua Scapes of CT LLC)

🌱 Northwest Flower & Garden Festival (February 14-18) Winner: Captured Nature by GMC Landscapes LLC

🌱 Maryland Home and Garden Show (March 1-10) Winner: Urban Designs, Inc.

🌱 The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show (March 2-10) Winner: A Beautiful Disturbance by Kelly D. Norris, LLC (Kelly D. Norris)

Learn more about the winners: https://ahsgardening.org/gardening-programs/national-awards/

Earth Day (April 22) is just five days away. EarthDay.org provided a few fascinating facts about plants.

Did You Know?
- Plants are one of Earth’s most essential species. Every living thing – either indirectly or directly – is supported by plants.
- The contributions of plants are numerous, from the food we eat to the medicines we use and the oxygen we breathe.
- There are over 390,000 known different species of plants, with 2,000 new species discovered annually.
- Around 8,800 different plant species are threatened with extinction, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Photo Credit: Paul Tukey at our River Farm headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia

Because …

It’s National Orchid Day

Photo: Taken during an AHS field trip to the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservancy in Washington, D.C. This month, USBG and the Smithsonian Gardens are presenting “The Future of Orchids: Conservation and Collaboration,” filling the entire Kogod Courtyard of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery with around 350 live orchids. Don’t miss it! The last day is April 28.

Happy National Gardening Day 🪴

Today is the day to get your hands dirty! Whether you have your own yard, a small balcony or just a window with sunshine and a container, there are so many ways to grow your own little oasis.

Gardening is not only a relaxing hobby, but it also has many benefits for our health and environment. Tending to plants can reduce stress, improve air quality, and provide us with fresh, nutritious produce.

So, on this special day, why not plan a gardening activity? You could plant some new flowers or herbs, tend to your vegetable patch, or simply spend some time weeding and mulching. Gardening is a wonderful way to get outside, get a little exercise, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Citrus fruits are simply irresistible! From the zesty tang of lemons and limes to the sweet juiciness of oranges and grapefruits, these fruits are culinary stars.

Citrus can be grown almost anywhere! In the warmest parts of the U.S. (Zones 8-11), citrus can be grown outdoors year-round while other regions can grow dwarf citrus trees in containers indoors. On average, trees bear fruit between 3 and 6 years old (dwarf trees tend to mature faster), and flowering is dependent on warm weather and rainfall rather than seasonal.

Tips for Success:
1. Sunshine is Key. Citrus trees thrive in full sun, so make sure they get at least 6-8 hours.

2. Well-draining Soil. Ensure your soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can harm citrus roots.

3. Fertilize Wisely. Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

4. Pruning Matters. Regular pruning helps maintain tree shape, improve air circulation, and encourage fruiting.

5. Watch for Pests. Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and scale insects; early detection is key!

Please welcome The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College to our Reciprocal Garden Network!

Located in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, the idyllic 425-acre arboretum that makes up the Swarthmore College campus is often dubbed one of the most beautiful in the country. Located just 11 miles from Philadelphia, the rolling hills, flowering trees, and hiking trails offer a nature escape on the edge of a busy metropolis. www.scottarboretum.org

Photo Credit: www.scottarboretum.org

The PHS : Pennsylvania Horticultural Society recently announced their 2024 Gold Medal Plant winners! This year's winners encapsulate an exemplify an execptional group of plant species that will guide novice and professional gardeners in planning their gardens this spring. Take a look at some of the winners below.

🌱 Asparagus officinalis ‘Millennium’: Edible

🌱 Illicium ‘Woodland Ruby’: Shrub

🌱 Magnolia ‘Genie’: Tree

🌱 Cephalanthus occidentalis Sugar Shack®: Shrub

🌱 Iris tectorum: Perennial

🌱 Tiarella cordifolia ‘Brandywine’: Perennial

For more information on this years winners, visit phsonline.org/for-gardeners/gold-medal-plants.

Photos courtesy of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

Let’s talk about lilacs!

Lilacs are members of the olive family (Olacae), which include jasmines (Jasminum spp.), forsythias (Forsythia spp.), fringe trees (Chionanthus spp.), and osmanthus (Osmanthus spp.). With their enchanting fragrant blooms in the late spring and early summer, lilacs have been treasured for centuries in their native Europe and Asia. Upon arrival to America, lilacs brought memories and fragrances of home to the European settlers. But, as time passed, their popularity decreased due to susceptibility to pests and diseases and their short bloom season.

Fortunately, breeders have improved lilac cultivars making them more adaptable for different garden types across various regions of North America.

Proper siting and pruning of lilacs, full sun light (a minimum of eight hours a day) and humus-rich, well-draining soil will help ensure lilac health and beauty.

(Source: The American Gardener, March/April 2015, “Lilacs for Modern Gardens” by Patricia A. Taylor)

Photo: Texas Lilac flower
Photo credit: annalovisa @ Getty Images

📣 New Grant Announcement

We are excited to announce that we are offering a new grant program for youth garden funding.

The Julia Rappaport Growing Gardeners Fund provides $1,000 - $2,000 annually to one educator to start or expand a garden or gardening science project at their school or community. The grant is intended to increase access to hands-on gardening and gardening science for youth to foster a lifelong passion for gardening, the natural world, and horticulture in children from all backgrounds.

Application deadline is May 10. Apply now at ahsgardening.org.

The urgency to halt the progression of climate change requires much more than the implementation of scientific knowledge—it requires a revolution across the fields of education, culture, and the arts.

In The Nature-Study Idea, Liberty Hyde Bailey (1858-1954), the “father of modern horticulture” and Progressive-Era educational reformer, articulated a similar need to reimagine education in light of socio-ecological crises at the dawn of the twentieth century.

Don’t miss this virtual talk led by John Linstrom, the Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in Climate Humanities, the Social Justice at the Climate Museum in New York City, and series editor of The Liberty Hyde Bailey Library for Cornell University.

Lifelong Learning Educational Session
“Revisiting Liberty Hyde Bailey’s Nature-Study Idea in the Era of Climate Change”

Wednesday, April 17
7-8 PM ET
Virtual

$10 AHS Members/$15 Non-members

Ahsgardening.org/lifelong-learning

📣 10 Day Countdown to Apply for an NCYGS Scholarship!

We are pleased to offer scholarships to help defray the cost to attend the 2024 National Children & Youth Garden Symposium, in partnership with the Chicago Botanic Garden, taking place on Chicago’s North Shore, July 8-11.

Two scholarship categories, sponsored by Ball Horticultural Scholarship Fund and the AHS, are available. Application deadline is next Friday, April 12.

ahsgardening.org/ncygs2024

Ball Horticultural KidsGardening.org Chicago Botanic Garden