The Alaska Peony Growers Association awarded its Growers Cup to longtime University of Alaska Fairbanks researcher Bob Van Veldhuizen.

Members of the statewide association honored Van Veldhuizen during its winter conference, which ended Saturday in Fairbanks. The award recognizes individuals who provide key support to the peony industry.

Tom Simpson, a peony grower from the North Pole area, said he nominated Van Veldhuizen because he has helped peony growers around the state interpret soil results and recognize plant tissue deficiencies. He has also given soils workshops and presentations at many peony conferences. Simpson’s nomination notes, “He’s had a contributing presence at virtually every peony gathering in the state.”

Van Veldhuizen also helped Simpson improve the soils at his farm off the Eielson Farm Road. Soil tests showed a high pH and high levels of calcium in part of his field. Simpson said Van Veldhuizen identified the problem and prescribed aluminum sulfate.

“Between Mingchu and Bob, they’ve been the best resources,” said Simpson.

He is referring to UAF Professor Mingchu Zhang, who received the Growers Cup in 2017. Simpson said although Van Veldhuizen officially retired from the university, he continues to advise growers.

Van Veldhuizen worked as a researcher for the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station for 35 years before retiring in December 2015. He continues to work part-time from May to October on peony and grains research with Zhang.

Van Veldhuizen, who now lives in Wasilla, said he got into peony soils research through the variety trials at the Georgeson Botanical Garden about 10 years ago. Since then, he and Zhang have tested different soil fertility treatments, including fish waste and compost, so they could advise growers on the best soil enhancement.

Van Veldhuizen is honored by the award. “It was nice of them to do that,” he said.