He received a Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture (RNZIH) Plant Raisers award last month for his work at the Tapanui nursery.
He said it was pretty good to be recognised.
"I’ve never had a day’s work in my life. I’ve just had fun," he said.
His days were spent working on plants in the trial beds, he said.
A lot of time was spent with Kōwhai, boosting the largest collection in New Zealand, he said.
He had been grateful for the help and support he received while at the nursery.
"I’m thankful for a lot of people [that] have helped me over the years. People from all parts, from Invercargill to Auckland."
In 2009, Mr Hughes became one of the RNZIH Associates of Honour.
It is the highest honour given by the RNZIH.
Over 50 of his plants were recognised for the Plant Raisers award.
They included two Francoa appendiculata named Flower Girl and Starry Eyes, and two rhododendrons named Pink Chiffon and Softlights.
Blue Mountain Nurseries general manager and son Chris Hughes said it showed his father’s dedication to plant life.
"I think it’s very well deserved.
"We are very proud of what dad has managed to achieve and he’s continuing to develop plants every day and have fun," he said.
The award is given in recognition of success in breeding cultivars that have the potential to contribute significantly to the wealth of New Zealand, he said.
- By Ben Andrews
