The Lynn B. Dudley Medal, one of the most prestigious honors awarded by the American Dahlia Society (ADS), celebrates exceptional achievement in dahlia cultivation. Named after a visionary whose influence on the dahlia world was unparalleled, this medal recognizes cultivars that exemplify excellence, innovation, and superior quality. Bestowed upon the highest-scoring dahlias in the Seedling Bench Evaluation process, it serves as a benchmark for breeders striving to push the boundaries of dahlia breeding and exhibition.
Lynn B. Dudley: A Visionary in Dahlia Cultivation
Behind the prestigious Lynn B. Dudley Medal lies the story of a man whose passion and dedication revolutionized the dahlia community. Lynn Bishop Dudley was born on December 21, 1885, in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and passed away at the age of 92 on July 31, 1978. More than just a gardener, he was a visionary whose contributions to the American Dahlia Society (ADS) transformed dahlia cultivation and exhibition. The medal named in his honor is one of the highest honors in the dahlia world, symbolizing excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of perfection in breeding and growing these remarkable flowers.
Ever wonder why the Lynn B. Dudley Medal exists?
It all traces back to a bold idea—one that revolutionized dahlia breeding and competition. In February 1949, Lynn B. Dudley led the creation of the A.D.S. Seedling Sweepstakes, a competition designed to showcase and elevate new dahlia varieties. While it was a collective effort, Dudley was the visionary behind it, ensuring that all ADS-affiliated societies could participate free of charge.
The Sweepstakes quickly became a premier event, setting higher standards for dahlia breeding and inspiring innovation. Dudley’s dedication to excellence not only transformed the competition but also paved the way for the Lynn B. Dudley Medal, an award that continues to honor the finest cultivars today. His legacy endures, pushing breeders to new heights with every bloom that earns this prestigious recognition.
Dudley’s vision for the Seedling Sweepstakes not only elevated the quality of new dahlia introductions but also set the stage for a lasting legacy of excellence in the field. Recognizing his impact on dahlia breeding and evaluation, the American Dahlia Society (ADS) established an award that would uphold his meticulous standards and dedication to innovation.
The Lynn B. Dudley Medal: A Symbol of Excellence
To honor his extraordinary contributions, the ADS created the Lynn B. Dudley Medal was created recognizing cultivars that exemplify the highest standards in dahlia breeding. This prestigious award is presented annually to the top-performing cultivar in the Seedling Bench Evaluation, a rigorous judging process designed to identify dahlias of exceptional quality.
A Lynn B. Dudley Medal is awarded to the cultivar with the highest average Seedling Bench Evaluation score in the following categories:
- AA (0001-0515) or A (1001-1515)
- B (2001-2515)
- BB (3001-3515)
- M or MC (4001-5515)
- BA, MB, or P (6001-6215)
- ST, MST (7001-7115), NX or MNX (7601-7715)
- WL or MWL (7301-7415)
The Seedling Bench Evaluation process is a meticulous assessment conducted at ADS affiliated shows to identify cultivars of exceptional quality. Judges evaluate each seedling based on several key criteria, assigning specific point values to each:
- Form (30 points)
- Color (20 points)
- Substance (10 points)
- Stem (10 points)
- Foliage (10 points)
- Bloom Position (10 points)
- Uniformity (Bench Evaluation) or Floriferousness (Trial Gardens) (10 points)
Cultivars achieving the highest scores, reflecting superior quality and performance, are honored with the Lynn B. Dudley Medal. This rigorous evaluation process ensures that only the finest dahlias receive this prestigious distinction, encouraging breeders to continually enhance their cultivars to meet the highest standards of excellence.
The A.D.S. Bulletin: A Vital Voice for the Dahlia Community
Lynn B. Dudley first took the editorial helm of the A.D.S. Bulletin from 1932 to 1937, laying a strong foundation with his passion and vision. After a 17-year period under Gordon Waaser’s leadership, Dudley returned in 1955 to once again steer the publication until 1962. His dedication ensured that the Bulletin remained an essential connection for the dahlia community, fostering knowledge and inspiration across generations.
Tackling Dahlia Mosaic at Rutgers University
Lynn B. Dudley, alongside other influential figures in the dahlia world, had a mission to address the pressing issue of virus diseases affecting dahlias, particularly Dahlia Mosaic. If you want to read more about this important collaboration and its outcomes, you can start here: Golden Anniversary Part 2.
Lynn B. Dudley’s impact on the dahlia world remains immeasurable. His work was never just about flowers—it was about pushing boundaries, fostering community, and inspiring generations of growers. The next time you admire a dahlia in full bloom, consider growing one yourself and carrying on this remarkable legacy.
References
1938 Ruschmohr Dahlia Gardens Publication
American Dahlia Society. (n.d.). Awards and medals. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org
American Dahlia Society. (n.d.). Seedling Bench Evaluation process. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org
The Spruce. (2023). Dahlia varieties and their history. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com