Proposed by: Lake Geneva Garden Club, Zone XI

An acclaimed plantsman, author and owner of Northwind Perennial Farm in Wisconsin, Roy Diblik is considered a leader in the New Perennial Movement incorporating naturalistic planting designs which feature native plants, hearty perennials, and grasses that work well together. He is credited with introducing North American native plants to Piet Oudolf when Roy collaborated with him on Chicago’s Lurie Garden that opened in 2004. 

A GCA honorary member, Roy is well known to many. He is highly regarded for his  plain-spoken style, good humor, and generosity in sharing his deep knowledge and affection for plants. In addition to Lurie Garden his work can be found in significant public gardens across the country. His best-selling book The Know Maintenance Perennial Garden makes a design-magazine-worthy garden achievable at home. And his entertaining and informative YouTube videos have helped make this style of gardening approachable to all.

Roy’s impressive understanding and passion for plants make him an nationally influential horticulturist and teacher.