John Lewis Childs was an American horticulturist and businessman, born in 1856 in New York. He is best known for founding the Childs Company, which specialized in mail-order plants and seeds. His innovative approach helped popularize gardening in the early 20th century. Childs was also a prominent figure in the American horticultural community. He contributed to various gardening publications and was involved in the establishment of the American Association of Nurserymen. His work significantly influenced the way plants were marketed and sold, making gardening more accessible to the general public.