IPM Essen 2025: A Celebration Of Innovation And Green Excellence

The global horticultural industry gathered in force at IPM ESSEN 2025, reaffirming its status as the world’s leading platform for innovation and sustainable progress.

With over 40,000 trade visitors and 1,434 exhibitors from 45 countries, this year’s event showcased the optimism and resilience of the industry. From cutting-edge cultivation methods to sustainability-driven plant innovations, the fair offered a glimpse into the future of horticulture.

Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, highlighted the event’s success, noting the significant increase in participation and its role as a vital industry driver. “The spirit of optimism in the green sector is palpable,” he said. Eva Kähler-Theuerkauf, Chair of the IPM Advisory Board, echoed this enthusiasm, she described IPM ESSEN as the birthplace of new trends and a tangible solutions hub for global challenges.

A Growing International Presence

IPM ESSEN 2025 demonstrated growth in visitor numbers and in the quality of attendees. Forty-four per cent of trade visitors came from outside Germany, marking a five-percentage-point increase from the previous year. Buyers from major garden centre chains, DIY stores, and food retailers were in attendance, solidifying the trade fair’s role as a critical global marketplace. Notably, delegations from Turkey, Japan, and Australia sought new products and innovative solutions, underscoring the event’s international appeal.

Innovation at the Forefront

This year’s event featured an enhanced supporting programme blending knowledge exchange, trend forecasting, and hands-on demonstrations. The new Gardeners’ Forum facilitated discussions on plant protection and sustainable cultivation, while the Horticultural Technology Innovation Center unveiled groundbreaking advancements in automation and vertical planting systems. The rise of medicinal cannabis cultivation also featured prominently, reflecting shifting industry dynamics.

The IPM Novelty Showcase is always a highlight and rewards outstanding plant innovations. Among the winners were a striking primrose with a flamenco-inspired look and a new rose variety boasting a profusion of blooms. Diderk Heinje secured multiple awards in the woody plants category, including special recognition for the hibiscus stem’ Hibiscus syriacus Flower Tower Ruby.’ The Show Your Colors Award, which recognises the best storytelling around plant products, went to the ground cover hydrangea ‘Breaking Ground.’

The Hibiscus syriacus Flower Tower Ruby from the companies Kordes Jungpflanzen Handels GmbH and Heinje.

Floral Artistry and Sustainable Concepts

Hall 5 was transformed into a masterpiece of floristry with the return of FDF World, where national and international master florists displayed awe-inspiring floral art and designs. The IPM Trade Fair Cup celebrated creativity in floral arrangements, with Düsseldorf-based trainee Yeo Jin Choi winning the coveted trophy in the combination category.

Meanwhile, sustainability took centre stage at the IPM Discovery Center. Industry influencer Michael Perry (‘Mr. Plant Geek’) led trade visitors on guided tours, highlighting key trends and breakthrough products. The Green Cities Europe Award recognised exceptional greening projects, and expert-led discussions delved into climate-resilient woody plants and circular economy models for the industry’s future.

AIPH Supporting Growers At IPM ESSEN 2025

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) exhibited at IPM ESSEN 2025, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the professional grower community. The AIPH team, led by President Leonardo Capitanio, was present at stand GA33, providing industry insights and fostering global partnerships.

Additionally, during the trade fair, AIPH hosted the prestigious International Grower of the Year Awards on Tuesday, 28 January, recognising the best in global horticulture. This celebrated event honoured outstanding growers from around the world, reinforcing AIPH’s commitment to promoting excellence, sustainability, and innovation in the industry.

Speaking on the significance of the awards, AIPH Secretary General Tim Briercliffe stated, “IPM ESSEN continues to be a vital platform for the global horticulture industry, providing opportunities to showcase innovation and foster international collaboration. The AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards celebrate the very best in our sector, recognising those who drive sustainability, quality, and excellence. It is inspiring to see so many growers embracing new technologies and solutions to meet the challenges of the future.”

A Thriving Future for Horticulture

The success of IPM ESSEN 2025 is reflected in its strong rebooking rate. An impressive 86 per cent of exhibitors have already committed to the 2026 edition, while 93 per cent of visitors plan to return. The figures underline the trade fair’s critical role in shaping the industry’s future.

With an ever-growing international presence, a commitment to sustainability, and an unwavering focus on innovation, IPM ESSEN continues to inspire and drive the horticultural sector forward. The next edition is set to take place from 27 to 30 January 2026, promising another milestone event in professional horticulture.