KEN AND MARILYN WALTON
2017 Inductees
Federation of Northwest Dahlia Growers Hall of Fame
History
In the decades the Waltons have devoted to raising dahlias, their spacious garden (within eyesight of the
Tacoma Narrows Bridge) has given visitors a spectacular waterfront viewpoint. For Ken and Marilyn, the
display ties the knot between their avocation and their personal blessings. After moving from a shady
domicile, the couple found a new home with tons of sunlight not far away. Plus, there was the view …
Clubs & Shows
The Waltons joined the Washington State Dahlia Society in 1991 and vowed to become active members.
Soon after, they also signed on with the Federation. And from those beginnings, the busy pair took out
time from their food distribution business to support shows, club, and Federation activities. They started
exhibiting with early success, and had major responsibilities at Federation-sponsored ADS national
shows. For the 2014 National Ken was treasurer, and together they were responsible for a houseful of
goody bags prepared for show visitors.
Marilyn took over the Tacoma Trial Garden and made it the standout attraction in Point Defiance Park. A
diligent and energetic gardener, Marilyn has tended the plantings throughout the growing season, often
assisted by her (now-retired) husband.
Federation members particularly appreciate their annual organization and sponsorship of trial garden
judging classes. Exhibitors can count on astute and instructive assessment as Ken and Marilyn handle
their judging assignments in shows. They can often be found at an ADS National Show, wherever it may
be held. Highly esteemed by the membership, the Waltons also have held several positions in their own
club, including Ken’s service as Washington State Dahlia Society Federation representative.
Hybridization
For the past decade, the couple also has made a name for themselves in the hybridization of exhibition
dahlias. Starting with Narrows Tricia, that yellow bombshell, the Narrows lineup lists more than a dozen
introductions. Having a close, ongoing function as trial garden director gives Marilyn valuable insights into
what makes for a winning dahlia. Not given to mass introductions, the Walton approach is deliberate and
has a keen focus on perfection. The dahlia world - and particularly the Federation - is blessed by having
two people who spare neither time nor expense in supporting these activities.