The FlowerTrials, one of the most anticipated events in the horticultural calendar, took place in week 24 this year. Despite the unpredictable weather, the event was a resounding success, with participants enjoying sunny skies that highlighted the vibrant displays of the latest innovations in the industry.
A Showcase Spanning 27 Locations
This year’s FlowerTrials featured 56 breeders from around the world, who presented their latest creations alongside their existing collections across 27 different locations. Our team visited every site to capture the highlights, which can be viewed in our comprehensive photo report.
Global Attendance and Industry Leaders
The event attracted visitors from every corner of the globe, including Asia, Australia, North America, and South America. These international attendees were joined by Dutch growers and traders, who were eager to explore the full range of offerings from the breeders.
Key Industry Trends on Display
Several key themes dominated the discussions and displays at the FlowerTrials. These included:
Faster Cultivation Cycles: Breeders showcased plants that can be grown more quickly, meeting the demands of a fast-paced market.
Uniform Flowering: New varieties with more consistent flowering patterns were a major focus, ensuring that plants bloom uniformly and predictably.
Enhanced Disease Resistance: Plants with improved resistance to common diseases were a highlight, offering growers more reliable and sustainable options.
Compact Growth Habits: There was a strong emphasis on plants with compact growth, which are well-suited for modern, space-conscious gardening and landscaping.
Resilient Plants: Breeders presented plants that can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heat and excessive rain, making them more adaptable to changing climates.
Full-Series Introductions
Another notable trend was the growing interest in full-series introductions. Instead of gradually adding new colors over several years, breeders are now launching complete plant lines all at once. This approach allows for a more cohesive and comprehensive product offering, which is highly appealing to both growers and consumers.
Industry Leaders in Attendance
Key figures from the horticultural industry were in attendance, including Francesca Lanzillotta of Suntory, Hubert and Stefan Brandkamp, Sirekit Mol from Beekenkamp, Michael Perry (also known as Mr. Plantgeek), and Evan Wijnker of PanAmerican Seed. Their presence underscored the importance of the event as a platform for innovation and collaboration.
A Look Ahead
The FlowerTrials is not just a showcase of current trends but also a glimpse into the future of horticulture. As breeders continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, the industry can look forward to even more exciting developments in the years to come.
For a closer look at the highlights of this year’s FlowerTrials, click here to view our detailed photo report.
