American Horticultural Society facts for kids
The American Horticultural Society (often called AHS) is a group that helps people learn about and enjoy horticulture (gardening and growing plants) in the United States. It's a non-profit, which means it doesn't aim to make money. Its main office is at a place called River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia.
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AHS History
The AHS started a long time ago, in 1922. This makes it one of the oldest groups in the U.S. that focuses on gardening. The AHS you see today was formed when three different gardening groups joined together. These groups were the original American Horticultural Society, the National Horticultural Society, and the American Horticultural Council.
Learning and Growing with AHS
The American Horticultural Society holds many events each year to teach and inspire people who love gardening.
National Children and Youth Garden Symposium
Every summer, the AHS hosts a special event called the National Children and Youth Garden Symposium. This is a meeting where teachers, garden designers, and community leaders come together. They share ideas and work together on ways to help kids connect with nature and learn about gardening.
Internship Programs
The AHS also has an internship program. This program hires interns (people who work to gain experience) in different areas. These areas include writing and communication, helping members, and horticulture itself.
AHS National Awards
The AHS gives out national awards to celebrate amazing achievements in gardening and plant science. These awards encourage people to do their best and come up with new ideas.
- Great American Gardeners Awards: These awards honor people who are heroes in the world of horticulture.
- AHS Book Awards: These awards celebrate excellent books about gardening.
- Growing Good Kids Awards: These awards recognize the best books for children about gardening and nature.
Becoming an AHS Member
If you are interested in gardening and plants, you can become a member of the AHS. Being a member comes with many cool benefits:
- You get a subscription to The American Gardener magazine.
- You can get free or discounted entry to over 300 gardens and arboretums (places with many trees) through their Reciprocal Admissions Program.
- You might get discounts or free entry to flower and garden shows.
- You can take part in the annual Seed Exchange, where members share seeds.
- You also get special discounts on other AHS programs and products.
River Farm: A Special Place
In 1973, the AHS moved its main office to River Farm. This beautiful property overlooks the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia. A kind person named Enid Annenberg Haupt gave a gift that helped the AHS get River Farm. She wanted to make sure this historic place, which was once part of George Washington's estate, would be open for everyone to enjoy.
Gardens at River Farm
River Farm has many different gardens. These include a large four-acre Andre Bluemel Meadow and a special Children's Garden.
Events at River Farm
Many events happen at River Farm throughout the year:
- The Spring Garden Market plant sale.
- Garden workshops for children.
- A special dinner for AHS award winners.
- A gala fundraiser (a big event to raise money) each fall.
Recent Discussions about River Farm
In September 2020, the AHS Board of Directors decided to sell the River Farm property. This idea caused some disagreement within the organization and with the local government. Even though the AHS first planned to sell the property by spring 2021, that deadline was not met.
AHS Partners
The AHS works with other groups through its Horticultural and Corporate Partners programs. These partnerships help support the AHS's goal of encouraging more people across the country to become gardeners. For example, in August 2020, the AHS teamed up with Elodie's Naturals. They worked together to teach about making skincare products from vegetables and plants.
See also
In Spanish: American Horticultural Society para niños
