(Steve_D) Steve Nowotarski

Steve Nowotarski, known to us as Steve_D joined us on February 24th, 2007. He was well-known in the gardening world and an expert on dahlias.

He was a respected grower, hybridizer and exhibitor and in 2013 the American Dahlia Society presented Steve with the ADS Gold Medal, the Society’s highest award.

We have been so fortunate to have such a learned and respected expert for such a long time here at Dave's Garden. He shared his knowledge and encouraged us for years and we have been blessed with his enthusiasm. Steve was a huge force in the dahlia world and gardeners everywhere will benefit from his work for years to come


"He who is born with a silver spoon in his mouth is generally considered a fortunate person, but his good fortune is small compared to that of the happy mortal who enters this world with a passion for flowers in his soul."
- Celia Thaxter

Steve would have loved your quote, Melody.

I once met him at Hofstra University at a gardening show. At the same time I met the late broadcaster, Ralph Snodsmith. Both were great losses to the world of gardening.

Steve was a natural with people and plants, eager to give demonstrations on how to cut dahlia tubers and to share his knowledge of his most beloved plant.

He will be missed and he will be remembered in the nicest way.