Awards Offered in 2025
Liberty Hyde Bailey Award
Given to an individual who has made significant lifetime contributions to at least three of the following horticultural fields: teaching, research, communications, plant exploration, administration, art, business, and leadership. Named after Liberty Hyde Bailey (1858-1954), horticulturist, educator, author.
Jane L. Taylor Award
Given to an individual, organization, or program that has inspired and nurtured future horticulturists through efforts in children’s and youth gardening. Named for Jane L. Taylor, youth advocate, horticulturist, educator.
Emerging Horticultural Professional Award
Given in the early stages of an individual’s career, this award recognizes significant achievements and/or leadership that have advanced the field of horticulture in America.
Garden Stewardship Award
Given to a public garden that embraces and exemplifies sustainable horticultural practices in design, maintenance, and/or programs.
B.Y. Morrison Communication Award (odd years only)
Recognizes effective and inspirational communication through print, radio, television, and/or online media that advances public interest and participation in horticulture. Named for Benjamin Yoe Morrison (1891-1966), landscape architect, plant breeder, artist. IInitialy named the Horticultural Communication Award.
Landscape Design Award (odd years only)
Given to an individual whose work has demonstrated and promoted the value of sustainable horticultural practices in the field of landscape architecture.
Frances Jones Poetker Award (odd years only)
Recognizes significant contributions to floral design. Named for Frances Jones Poetker, floral designer, author, lecturer.
Additional Awards Categories
Community Greening Award (even years only)
Given for exemplary contributions by an individual, institution, or company that demonstrate the application and value of horticulture to creating livable communities that are greener, healthier, and more equitable. Initially named the Urban Beautification Award.
H. Marc Cathey Award (even years only)
Recognizes outstanding scientific research that has enriched the field of horticulture. Named for H. Marc Cathey, researcher, horticulturist, administrator. Initially named the Scientific Award.
Horticultural Innovation Award (even years only)
Given to an individual or company whose innovations have made the field of horticulture more sustainable and accessible to all. Previously given as Luther Burbank Award, Paul Ecke Jr. Commercial Award, and G.B. Gunlogson Award.
Horticultural Therapy Award (Rolling Basis)
Recognizes significant contributions to the field of horticultural therapy.
Meritorious Service Award (Rolling Basis)
Recognizes outstanding service and generosity in support of the AHS and sustainable gardening.
Teaching Award (Rolling Basis)
Given to an individual whose ability to share his or her horticultural knowledge with others has contributed to a better public understanding of the plant world and its important influence on society.