AHS announces winners of 2026 Great American Gardeners Awards

The American Horticultural Society announced the recipients of its 2026 Great American Gardeners Awards, recognizing contributions across research, education, sustainability and innovation.

Among the honorees, John Dole of North Carolina State University received the Liberty Hyde Bailey Award for lifetime achievement in horticulture. Michael Guidi of Denver Botanic Gardens was named Rising Star for his work in horticultural research and plant selection.

The Garden Sustainability Award went to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for its work in sustainable design and integrated pest management practices relevant to greenhouse and controlled environment production.

Silvia Alvarez-Clare of The Morton Arboretum received the Scientific Award for research on tree conservation and climate impacts on plant systems.

Other honorees include Sam Ullery and Lisa Whittlesey for youth gardening education, Ian Ford-Terry for innovation in plant conservation practices and ReGreen Springfield for community greening efforts.

The awards, established in 1953, highlight advancements that influence plant production, environmental stewardship and horticultural practices across sectors including greenhouse growing.

Learn more about the AHS’ Great American Gardeners Awards.