Welcome from Michael Bamford - ARS President:
On behalf of the thousands of rhododendron enthusiasts worldwide "welcome to our web site." Here you will find valuable resources which enable you to learn more about the selection and care of rhododendrons. We hope this will encourage you to explore all that the genus Rhododendron (which includes azaleas) has to offer, and you will include these wonderful plants in your garden.
"Take a look" at what we do in the Society...
ARS 2026 Annual Convention
Join us on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia April 21 – 25, 2026 for the American Rhododendron Society Convention,
Rhododendrons and Companions in a Changing Climate. Enjoy public and private garden tours from Victoria to the
Cowichan Valley and Qualicum Beach. Learn about the new Greig Species Garden at Milner Gardens and Woodland. Support the
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden at their AGM with Steve Hootman and his team. Hear the science and practical ideas
for our gardens as our climate changes.
More information
2026 Rhododendron of the Year Awards
The ARS proudly announces its Rhododendron of the Year (ROY) selections for 2026. With excellent foliage and plant habit,
beautiful flowers, and disease and pest resistance, the ROY selections are highly recommended for utilization in your landscape.
Informative articles about:
- rhododendron & azalea culture,
- propagation,
- hybridizing,
- private & public gardens,
- plant portraits,
- companion plants,
- plant hunting exploration,
- rhododendron research,
- and much more.
Visit archive of previously published issues.
ARS Seed Exchange Open for Sales
Seeds collected by Society members are offered for sale at the 2026 ARS seed exchange.
Until March 7 only members of the American Rhododendron Society may order seed. After March 7 anyone
may purchase seed. View the seed list and order online at the
ARS seed exchange page.
Links to ARS Podcasts
Listen to "For the Love of Rhododendron" audio podcasts. In the podcasts
we learn about the life experiences of ARS members, how random twists and turns in their lives led them to
discover their love of Rhododendron. Our podcasts can inspire and inform others embarking
on their own journey into the vast, uncharted territory that is plant genus Rhododendron.
Podcast index