American Horticultural Society

Membership - as a membership organization, the ahs provides services and outreach in support of its more than 21,000 members throughout the united states and internationally. Member communications and other benefits provide supporters with the information and inspiration they need to be successful gardeners - enriching their lives and inspiring them to have a positive impact on their communities. In addition, these activities contribute to the organizational objectives of helping more americans enjoy the rewards of gardens and gardening, celebrating the diversity of horticulture in america, and encouraging earth-friendly gardening practices. Reciprocal membership agreements connect ahs members with a national network of public gardens and Horticultural organizations extending the Society's educational reach.

Educational programs - these activities focus on sharing the art and practice of horticulture with people at all levels of gardening expertise. Since 1993, the Society has hosted the national children and youth garden symposium that is committed to bridging the growing divide that separates young people from the natural world. The Society's internship program provides valuable hands-on experience for college students, helping to shape the Horticultural leaders of tomorrow. The Society partners with a range of nonprofit organizations to educate and engage the public on issues at the intersection of horticulture, the environment, and individual and community health. A reciprocal admission program offers members free or reduced admission to approximately 325 public gardens and arboreta nationwide and, along with international travel-study trips and other special programs,offers the opportunity for experiential, garden-based learning and appreciation. The Society's national awards programs encourage excellence and honor the achievements of individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to horticulture in america.

Communications - communications activities are a key part of the Society's educational outreach and member service offerings. The Society's flagship bimonthly member publication, the American gardener magazine provides useful and authoritative information on a range of Horticultural topics. In combination with other resources offered via the Society's website, ahsgardening.org, an online magazine archive, with issues dating back to 1922, provides the general public with access to a vast trove of gardening information and ideas. The Society is a leader in creating authoritative gardening reference books that put the most current Horticultural information in the hands of professionals and amateur gardeners across america. The ahs engages a national community of gardeners and garden enthusiasts around the world via multiple social media platforms.

Garden and buildings - the ahs maintains, opens to the public, and enhances river farm, the Society's 25-acre headquarters, which was one of five Virginia properties originally owned by george Washington. A site of regional, national, Horticultural and historic significance, river farm is open to visitors and serves as a venue for educational programs, civic meetings, and special events. River farm staff work with an engaged local volunteer base to maintain the property. River farm staff also provide interpretive educational content, tours, and coordination in support of the Society's on-site and national programs. The ahs derives revenue to maintain river farm and support its mission through site rentals for weddings, memorials, retreats, and special events.