Posted on August 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM by Emily Saveraid
Kelly D. Norris is one of the leading horticulturists of his generation. In his practice, he explores the intersections of people, plants, and places through ecological, site-specific design and art. An award-winning author and plantsman, Kelly’s work in gardens has been featured in The New York Times, Better Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart Living, Fine Gardening, Garden Design, and numerous television, radio, and digital media appearances.
He’s the founder and curator of The Public Horticulture Company, an emerging ecological landscape startup based in Des Moines, Iowa. The studio annually produces the New Naturalism Academy, a virtual school for enthusiastic designers, as a commitment to continuing education and lifelong learning.
He is the former director of horticulture and education at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, where for eight years, he directed efforts in design, curation, programming, garden, and facility management after serving as the owner’s representative to nearly $20 million in capital projects.
Kelly was a nine-year member of Taylor County 4-H. As a junior member, he was facilitating workshops for fellow 4-H members. His passion for horticulture was driven through 4-H. At age 15, Kelly purchased an iris farm and relocated it to his family farm in Bedford. Kelly has been cultivating his love for horticulture since his early years of 4-H.
