IPM Essen once again brought the global ornamental horticulture sector together at the start of the international calendar. As an AIPH-Approved Trade Show and Affiliate Member of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), the week provided an important opportunity to celebrate excellence in growing, connect with members and partners, and place growers firmly at the heart of the industry conversation.
The centrepiece of AIPH’s presence at IPM Essen was the presentation of the AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026 Awards, the association’s flagship programme recognising outstanding ornamental producers worldwide. Held during the show, the awards celebrated leadership, innovation and long-term vision across multiple categories, while reinforcing the essential role of growers in shaping a resilient and responsible global horticulture sector.
Hillier Nurseries was named AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026, receiving the Gold Rose as the highest honour of the awards programme. Henil Vashi of Robin Tacchi Plants was recognised as Young International Grower of the Year 2026, highlighting emerging leadership and entrepreneurial talent within the global ornamental horticulture sector.
The awards ceremony was presented by plantsman and broadcasting influencer Michael Perry, widely known as Mr Plant Geek, alongside Sirikit Mol, Head of Commercial Operations and Head of Marketing & Retail at Beekenkamp Plants. Together, they guided the audience through the celebration of growers from across the world, bringing warmth, clarity and insight to one of AIPH’s most significant annual moments.
AIPH would like to thank Michael and Sirikit for their roles as hosts of the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards, and Seren Events for their contribution to the ceremony.
Connecting With The Global Horticulture Community
Beyond the awards stage, the AIPH team met with members, partners, media and stakeholders from across the international ornamental horticulture sector throughout the week. Conversations took place both at the AIPH stand at Galleria 33 and across the show, supporting dialogue, collaboration and relationship-building.
Meetings also included engagement with organisers of AIPH-approved horticultural trade shows, reinforcing collaboration across AIPH’s international events network and strengthening links between growers, organisers and industry stakeholders.
Discussions at IPM Essen also built on recent AIPH activity, including dialogue emerging from the association’s Cut Flowers meetings, reinforcing continuity across programmes and themes. Meetings with partners such as Union Fleurs (International Flower Trade Association) and the University of Hohenheim of Berlin highlighted ongoing work on the International Statistics for Flowers & Plants, reflecting AIPH’s commitment to supporting access to reliable, globally relevant industry data. This work is supported through AIPH’s wider knowledge-sharing activity, including its industry publication FloraCulture International.
Reflecting on the week, Tim Briercliffe, Secretary General of AIPH, said:
“IPM Essen is always an important moment for our community. From celebrating our International Grower of the Year winners to reconnecting with long-standing members and meeting new partners, it was a busy and energising week.”
AIPH’s activities at IPM Essen reflected a focus on recognising excellence while supporting dialogue and connection across the global ornamental horticulture sector.
AIPH looks forward to returning to IPM Essen in January 2027, as the international ornamental horticulture community comes together once again.
