About Us
Since 1959, the Great Lakes Chapter of the ARS has served its members by promoting education and research on rhododendrons and azaleas while fostering friendships and collegial exchange of information throughout the year. We host formal meetings in the Spring and Fall at members’ private gardens as well as at nationally recognized botanical gardens around the Great Lakes Region.
From pure whites to pretty pinks, bold reds, fiery oranges and soft purples, rhododendrons and azaleas put on a spring show in color and shapes unrivaled by none. And, in the darkest days of winter, their lovely green leaves peek out from under the snow, giving us hope of what’s to come. if you are a beginner just learning that ‘“rhodies” love acid soil and hate wet feet, or an accomplished gardener looking to create your own hybrids, our chapter can provide you with the guidance and tools you need to pursue your goals.
“The Great Lakes Chapter of the ARS has something for everyone. Whether you’re into rhododendron for the flowers, conservation, conversation, preservation, plant physiology, hybridizing, research, art, or the medicinal properties of the shrub, there’s a place for you in the group.”
— Ellen Dailey, GLC Member
Chapter Highlights
April 29, 1959: Great Lakes Chapter formed.
Fifteen members of the American Rhododendron Society met at the David Mead Hotel in Meadville, PA and voted to form the Great Lakes Chapter.
1960: GLC hosts Rhododendron Show at at the Garden Center of Greater Cleveland, Ohio.
The show was the largest Rhododendron Show ever held in the Eastern US . Over 1,000 cut trusses and 77 complete blooming plants were displayed.
1965: David Leach, Ph.D. awarded ARS Gold Medal.
Recognized for his contributions to horticulture as a breeder of cold climate rhododendrons, achieving new standards of beauty and hardiness in these specimens, as a promoter of interest in the field, and as an author of “Rhododendrons of the World” recognized as a definitive and comprehensive work on the subject.
1966: Great Lakes Chapter Test Garden.
Secrest Arboretum. Wooster, OH.
1973: Anthony Shammarello awarded ARS Gold Medal.
Recognized for his “contribution to the beauty and diversity of gardens in cold climates and in appreciation for his admirable career as a landscape designer and nurseryman at an extraordinary level of excellence.
1986: Weldon Delp awarded ARS Gold Medal. Recognized for his meticulous record keeping, innovative and knowledgeable hybridizing. He also received the Bronze Medal from the GLC.
2024: Kathleen and Gordon Walters awarded ARS Bronze Medal.
Recognized for their contributions and service to the ARS Great Lakes Chapter. For over forty years, “Spike and Kay” have spent countless hours planning , arranging, and hosting chapter meetings as well as handling membership. During this time, the also hosted the "Sunday Study Group" of chapter hybridizers at their home . Their gardens have preserved the beauty created by Spike and other chapter hybridizers including Lanny Pride, Weldon Delp, David Leach, Tom Ring, Warren Stokes.