Dean Norton fell in love with the Mount Vernon Estate Gardens 53 years ago and never left.

After receiving a degree in horticulture from Clemson University he began his horticultural career as the estate’s boxwood gardener. 

The historical gardens of the first president of The United States George Washington became his responsibility in 1980.  His promotion to horticulturist allowed him to applying the latest plant science and horticulture management techniques for historical gardens.  

Dean has devoted considerable time researching 18th century gardens and gardening practices. 

He has received awards for conservation from the DAR and the Garden Club of America as well as the Garden Club of America’s Elizabeth Craig Weaver Proctor National Medal. 

He is an honorary member of the Garden Club of Virginia and the Garden Club of Providence.

He has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Washington College, serves on several historic property boards and, lectures nationally and internationally.