Urgent call for better water restrictions for the UK’s green sector

The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) and the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) are calling on the UK government to adjust the water restrictions. In a joint letter to Minister Emma Hardy, they warn that the current measures – such as South East Water’s temporary ban on water use following the heatwave – are causing unnecessary harm to businesses in the green sector. This sector, which represents 3,800 businesses, plays a crucial role in combating climate change through urban greening, flood prevention and heat resilience.

Boomkwekerij Maarten van Overbeek continues as Overbeek Bomen

As of 6 July, Boomkwekerij Maarten van Overbeek will continue under the name Overbeek Bomen. According to the company, the new name better reflects the development the organisation has undergone in recent years.

National crisis exercise on quarantine organisms

What is the Japanese beetle is found somewhere… how can a crisis be averted? On Friday 19 June, this fictional scenario was practiced with entrepreneurs, representatives of industry organisations and governmental authorities. 

“We Love Conifers” launches its first consumer campaign with a Tuscan theme

Twelve conifer growers have joined forces to reposition the conifer as the essential plant for modern, climate-resilient gardens and public spaces. The initiative offers a solution to increasing urbanisation and the growing demand for sustainable, year-round greenery.

Garden sector continues to grow: Italian DIY market embraces greenery, wellbeing and innovation

The garden industry within Italian DIY superstores remains one of the most dynamic and forward-looking segments of the market. In the first quarter of 2026, the category achieved a turnover of €130.6 million, representing growth of 8.3% compared to the same period a year earlier. This confirms the garden industry’s role as a strategic growth driver within the DIY industry, at a time when other segments are under pressure. This is reported by the Italian trade fair Bricoday, to be held at Fiera Milano–Rho on 23–24 September 2026, based on Nielsen Q measurements.

Soil resilience: where do we stand now?

On 28 May 2026, the Royal Dutch Phytopathological Society (KNPV) held a well-attended meeting on the theme of soil resilience. Over 150 professionals and students in the field of plant health took part. Soil resilience plays a major role in plant health. The soil and soil life of a particular plot largely determine whether a plant growing there is more likely to fall ill or, conversely, is more resilient to certain pathogens. A system comparable to the functioning of the gut microbiome in humans.

Priorities for the horticultural industry in France

Global trade in ornamental plants is characterised by stark contrasts between dynamic exporting regions and major import markets facing economic pressures. By 2026, the European ornamental plant industry will be operating in a paradoxical context: public demand for plants remains strong, but at the same time businesses must contend with rising energy and cultivation costs, labour shortages, regulation, climate change and rapidly changing customer expectations.

Fourth Generation Have Taken Over Solgården

At the ornamental plant company Solgården in southern Sweden, a generational transition was officially completed in January. The new owners have been active within the company for many years and will continue to build on the strong brand that Solgården has become since its founding in 1958.