It’s Official: The Baby Gnome Has a Name!

After thousands of submissions and hundreds of votes, Reiman Gardens has finally given their new Baby Gnome a name: Sprout. 

The search for the perfect name started this summer when Reiman Gardens asked the community to help name the newest addition to the Garden family. Nearly 1,500 names were submitted both in person and online throughout July and August. Once submissions closed, the Reiman staff thoughtfully reviewed each idea and narrowed down the list to three finalists: Morty, Osborn, and Sprout. 

The staff wanted each name to be intentional and hold a meaningful connection to Iowa State, Ames, or a garden theme. Morty had a connection to Mortensen Drive, the street that runs along the south border of the Gardens. Osborn had university ties, as Herbert Osborn was the head of the Department of Zoology and Entomology from 1882 to 1897. Sprout had the closest ties to gardening as a symbol of new growth.

From there, it was up to the public. Once the votes were tallied, Sprout was the most popular choice by far.

• Sprout: 260 votes
• Osborn: 152 votes
• Morty: 141 votes

The winning name was submitted by sixteen individuals, and each of them shared a piece of why they thought it was the perfect fit. 

“Just like a sprout grows from the soil near an old tree, this baby gnome is the new growth rising up alongside Elwood.” - Tirth Dave

“Because a sprout is a tiny baby plant.” - Elaine Brassard

“Reiman Gardens is home to a beautiful garden with various sprouts, blooms, and other insects. The gnome is a baby, so Sprout seems fitting.” - Melanie Kempf 

The name was revealed at Elwood’s 16th birthday party on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and commemorated with a new wooden sign to match Elwood’s own. Guests are invited to visit the Gardens and officially meet Sprout!