GrootGroenPlus puts retail in the spotlight with the Garden Centre Event
The international trade fair GrootGroenPlus is responding to the growing importance of sustainability in the retail sector with special activities during its 35th edition, taking place from 1 to 3 October 2025. The event will provide garden centres, cash & carry businesses, and other green sector specialists with unique insights into current sustainability topics and opportunities to expand their knowledge and networks.
Targeted content creation on GGP.News strengthens international impact
GrootGroenPlus is expanding its content strategy to promote trade and cooperation. A well-informed audience is essential for the success of GrootGroenPlus (GGP). For this reason, EPS is investing in a targeted content strategy for GGP.News, the platform that highlights participants, visitors, and market developments. By creating and strategically distributing high-quality content, GGP is enhancing its international visibility and stimulating trade and collaboration within the tree nursery industry.
Tree Planting Day (Boomfeestdag) 2025: planting together for the future
On Wednesday 19 March 2025, we came together to celebrate the conclusion of the annual Tree Planting Day season in Zundert. With a programme full of education, sustainability and cooperation, pupils, tree growers and involved organisations made a significant contribution to the greening of the region. Once again, the event was a sequence of meaningful and memorable moments.
‘Heart for green': partnership between GrootGroenPlus and Varb offers additional benefits for participants
Varb and trade fair GrootGroenPlus share a Heart for Green and will continue their successful collaboration in 2025. This means that participants of the 35th edition of the trade fair – taking place from 1 to 3 October in Zundert – can once again showcase their current assortment easily via the digital trade fair platform.
European Plant Support (EPS) foundation supports three innovative projects in the tree nursery industry
The European Plant Support (EPS) foundation has once again awarded financial contributions to innovative projects in the tree nursery industry, as part of its third funding round. During the board meeting of 10 March, it was decided to support three initiatives that contribute to sustainability, innovation, and knowledge sharing within the industry. The projects will be featured at GrootGroenPlus 2025 and they will provide a tangible contribution to the further development of the tree nursery industry.
The power of plants: unique research by ROOTZ for a healthier management of soil, water and air
How can you use plants to improve the quality of the soil, water, and air? Further research into this green technology, also known as phytoremediation, should lead to refinement and expansion of the existing possibilities.
The Valencian nurseries affected by DANA-2024 seem to be largely on ther own for the time being
In Spain, the new year only truly begins after Christmas and the Three Kings have departed. It marks the start of new initiatives, challenges, and opportunities on both a personal and professional level. However, for the Valencian plant nurseries devastated by the dramatic floods at the end of October, 2025 is shaping up to be drastically different. The industry estimates losses at €150 million-€50 million due to the destruction of plants and €100 million from damaged business premises, greenhouses, installations, and production fields. The immense force of the water abruptly ended the 2025 sales season and potentially future campaigns, as many crops have multi-year cycles.
Spring starts with FLORALL
Over seventy ornamental plant and tree nursery companies will present their products at the spring edition of FLORALL on Tuesday 4 March. The focus is on the assortment for the coming spring.
Local celebration of Boomfeestdag returns this year
On Wednesday 19 March 2025, another tree planting event will take place in the municipality of Zundert, building on the local initiative that originated from the Nationale Boomfeestdag. First collectively launched last year, the event promises to be another inspiring day dedicated to raising awareness about greenery, sustainability, and biodiversity. With 150 children, engaging activities, and the planting of new trees at the Business Centre Treeport (BCT), it is set to make a lasting impact.
Theme GrootGroenPlus 2025: Heart for green
From 1 to 3 October 2025, the 35th edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus will take place. This year’s theme, ‘Heart for Green’, highlights the central role of greenery not only in our industry but far beyond. Green is at the core of the product range, the passion of participants, visitors, guests, and employees. Everyone involved contributes with a green heart to building a sustainable future. The theme of this year’s trade fair reflects the commitment to quality, collaboration, and innovation that has made GrootGroenPlus a leading event in the industry for 35 years.
Myplant & Garden – International Green Expo 55.000 sqm dedicated to horticulture
The International Green Expo (Fiera Milano Rho, February 19-21, 2025 will be an even bigger edition, with 55,000 sqm (+5,000 sqm) spread across four halls: an impressive space covering 5.5 hectares, equivalent to eight football fields or 211 tennis courts. More than 800 exhibiting brands (22% from abroad, mainly from the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, France, and Spain, with floral companies from Ecuador and Kenya attending for the first time), dozens of partner associations, 200 buyer delegations, and over 125 accredited foreign companies from 45 strategic countries across five continents. Additionally, there will be 70 conferences and special initiatives and 150 journalists already accredited. These are the initial figures for the event, just days before it opens.
Standard tree industry Opheusden continues to research and innovate
The cultivation of standard trees in the Netherlands predominantly takes place in the Betuwe region, within the clay soils of Opheusden, located between the major rivers. Initially focused on fruit growing, the region shifted its focus to standard tree cultivation during the 20th century. Over 160 companies are members of Tree Centre Opheusden (TCO), collectively managing 1,950 hectares primarily dedicated to standard trees.
Interesting investments in Greek landscaping
In recent years, Greece has witnessed a significant surge in investments within the construction sector, particularly with a focus on tourism development. These investments are not only transforming the urban landscape but also enhancing the country’s appeal as a global tourist destination. In this article, we will explore three of the largest ongoing projects in Greece, each of which exemplifies the new wave of tourism-focused construction. Two of these projects are located in Athens, while the third is situated in Elounda, Crete.
The water board plays an important part
“As a water board, we manage the water quality and the quantity of rainwater in the region. This applies to our entire area in West Brabant, from Tilburg to Bergen op Zoom and from Moerdijk to the Belgian border, including Zundert,” says Angelien Hagenaars, a member of the executive board of Waterschap Brabantse Delta and a resident of the region herself.
Employees of the future
One of the most pressing challenges facing the tree nursery industry is the shortage of personnel. Finding skilled employees is an enormous task, both now and for the future. Are the demands placed on employees changing, both now and in the coming years? Are different expectations being placed on employers? What does the ideal employee look like, and how can companies attract them as efficiently as possible? The KwekersBode discussed these questions with two participants, each offering their own specific perspective: Ergon Kwekerij and accounting firm aaff.
Less chemicals, but costs remain a challenge GSFs
With the changing climate, the benefits of working with growing support facilities (GSFs) are increasingly coming under scrutiny. While discussions about biodiversity, costs, legislation, and permitting continue, it appears that GSFs are becoming indispensable for growers. Marc Lodders (Lodders Boomkwekerijen), Corné Leenaerts (Boomkwekerij Leenaerts-Halters & Zn), and Marco Braspenning (Braspenning & Co) discuss the current state of affairs.
New entrepreneurs share their stories
The tree nursery industry often faces challenges such as ageing demographics and a lack of successors, but young entrepreneurs are still stepping up, both in nurseries and in the technical sector. The KwekersBode spoke to four of them to hear their stories.
A brave ecological experiment alongside the Danube in Hungary
Pünkösdfürdő Park is part of a comprehensive ecological experiment with a number of innovative solutions. The area used to be a grassland without any woody vegetation, but thanks to the work of the designers and landscapers, a real biodiverse recreational paradise has been created here. It is worth visiting the park every two weeks for its’ varying vegetation.
A rejuvenating cure for Chaplin Park in Switzerland
When public expectations meet the demands of biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change, the renovation of a park becomes a gift to its users. Let's take a look at an exemplary project in Corsier, Switzerland. The Charlie Chaplin Park has just been renovated and once again offers spectacular views over Lake Geneva. A veritable lung of greenery for the inhabitants of Corsier-sur-Vevey, this haven of peace allows all generations to enjoy a respectfully redesigned world.
Trade fair Green is Life has a lot to offer
The international GREEN IS LIFE trade fair presents garden plants, techniques and technologies for the production of plants and green areas, products and services for horticulture, garden and urban greenery equipment, as well as landscape architecture including cut and potted flowers.
New pavillion and more innovations at Myplant & Garden 2025
The ninth edition of Italy's premier international event for green professionals will open its doors at Fiera Milano Rho from February 19 to 21, 2025. This essential gathering for companies, operators, and associations in landscaping, horticulture, gardening, and sportsgrounds offers a unique and unparalleled showcase of proposals, solutions, products, and services for the entire green industry.
Endless Green Diversity at IPM ESSEN 2025
From January 28 to 31, 2025, over 1,400 exhibitors from around fifty countries will present their latest products, services and innovations in the fields of plants, technology, floral design and garden design. IPM ESSEN offers the international connoisseur audience not only a comprehensive overview but also numerous interesting program highlights that invite exchange, discovery and networking.Our trade visitors can look forward to an inspiring order and trend platform. The focus is mainly on climate-resistant plants, energy-efficient and resource-saving production solutions and attractive sales and presentation concepts,” said Andrea Hölker, project manager of IPM ESSEN. “We are looking forward to four special days of trade fairs.” The relevant topics will be rounded out with lectures, special presentations and value-added tours. IPM ESSEN takes up entire fairgrounds. The enthusiasm from the industry is great: also in 2025, IPM ESSEN will fill Halls 1, 1A, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and the Galeria. Halls 1, 1A, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and Galeria): are dedicated to nursery plants and young plants, flowering potted plants, colorful cut flowers and robust perennials. The IPM ESSEN presents a unique international plant show. For the first time, the spring edition of the Landgard-Ordertage will take place in Hall 1A. Also new is the Horticultural Forum in Hall 2 as a central meeting point for producer horticulture. Exhibitors will bring the public the latest news about the future, production and industry in the “young plants” sector in practical lectures and panel discussions. The forum also serves as a starting point for guided tours that offer enlightening insights into the world of young plants and new trends. In Hall 7, tree nurseries from North Rhine-Westphalia will present the
Nominations for Show Your Colours Award IPM 2025 announced
Ten plants have been nominated for the Show Your Colours Award IPM 2025. All exhibitors of IPM with woody plants and perennials could submit plants or plant concepts for this award. Ten plants/plant concepts were eventually nominated from the entries. The Show Your Colours Award will be presented on Thursday 30 January 2025 at 15:00 in the BIZZ Holland stand, hall 8, stand number 8A30-4.
Eight Flemish innovations at the IPM 2025
Flanders' presence at the IPM-fair will focus on typical Flemish products such as azaleas, rhododendrons, flowering houseplants, Flemish laurel and chrysanthemums as well as shrubs, young plants, bedding plants and nursery stock products. The flemish exhibitors also have eight new products on show: Deroose Plants, Hall 2 – Booth B25.8 presents Agave ‘Peace Revolution’, Alocasia ‘Serendipity Pink Variegata’, Guzmania ‘Chouette’, Nepenthes ‘Midnight’, Tillandsia ‘Mizuki‘. www.derooseplants.com Leybaert, Hall 2 – Booth B25.6 expands its range with die PWR plant Maximus and PWR plant Hercules. www.leybaert.be Rudy Raes Bloemzaden, Hall 2 - Booth B25.5 presents Primula acaulis ‘Flamenco Mix’.
BCT gains recognition as the Greenest Business Park in the Netherlands:
‘This award is a recognition and appreciation of our efforts’ “Business Centre Treeport (BCT) sets a remarkable standard for how business parks can contribute to a greener future,” declared the jury when naming the Greenest Business Park in the Netherlands for 2024. The accolade was announced during the Day of Economic Affairs hosted by Stichting CLOK. Overjoyed with the recognition, BCT now shifts its focus to further preparation for construction at its sustainable business park. "We aim to use the latest techniques to make our public spaces even more climate-resilient and robust," says project manager Remco van Dessel.
Natural Surroundings for Enriched Play in Sweden
In the Swedish city of Örebro, the municipality is exploring innovative approaches to developing both new and existing park areas. Their vision centers on creating spaces with a diverse range of plant materials, fostering natural environments that are both rich and engaging for children's play. Below, you can gain insight into a few of these park projects.
Stichting EPS opens third round for innovative projects
Stichting European Plant Support (EPS) is once again inviting project proposals for financial support. Following two successful rounds—focused on stimulating international trade and supporting educational and sustainable initiatives—it is now time for a new opportunity to realise innovative ideas for the tree nursery industry. Entrepreneurs and organisations have until 1 March 2025 to submit their projects.
The Tree Festival is the most fun day of the year
Echten - With the push of a green button, Albert Verlinde (chairman of the National Tree Day Foundation), Inge Nieuwenhuizen (mayor of the municipality of De Wolden) and Sylvo Thijsen (director of Staatsbosbeheer) opened the 67th National Tree Day today at Staatsbosbeheer forestry Ruinen in Echten. During this green holiday, thousands of pupils across the Netherlands stepped out of the classroom and into the residential area or nature to plant trees.
Urban Interior Congress: ‘Let citizens and businesses invest in urban greenery’
The bill for a green living environment should not only fall on governments, but on everyone who benefits from it. So said Minouche Besters, partner at city maker STIPO. She was keynote speaker at the Urban Interior Congress in the Dutch citxy Arnhem and sees opportunities for green spaces to be co-financed and maintained by residents, entrepreneurs and developers.
Awarded novelties at Green is Life 2024
At the Polish floriculture trade fair Green is Life, awards were handed out for submitted novelties. The results included two Gold, one Silver and one Bronze award, as well as two honourable mentions. A total of 30 novelties were submitted for assessment.
Myplant & Garden Middle East The first Italian B2B green industry trade fair in Dubai
The leading Italian green industry trade fair Myplant & Garden has expanded and strengthened its international presence with the official presentation of Myplant & Garden Middle East, the first Italian B2B green industry trade fair in Dubai and the only event dedicated to the ornamental green industry in the Middle East. This trade fair will be held from 15-17 November 2025 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Business Centre Treeport named Greenest Business Park in the Netherlands 2024
On Thursday 7 November, Business Centre Treeport (BCT) in Zundert was awarded the prestigious title Greenest Business Park in the Netherlands 2024. The announcement was made during the Day of Economic Affairs (Dag van Economische Zaken), organised by the Stichting CLOK. The event brought together professionals for inspiring knowledge sessions, networking discussions, and this special election.
Climate resilient nursery plants Made in Hungary
Due to the unique environmental conditions, historic traditions and high skills nursery plant production is the most prosperous segment of the ornamental sector in Hungary without a doubt.
Stichting EPS supports innovative projects in the tree nursery industry with financial contributions
The Stichting European Plant Support (EPS), which has long been committed to promoting progress within the tree nursery industry, has once again demonstrated its support for important initiatives. During the 34th edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus in 2024, EPS selected two innovative submissions for financial support, further stimulating the industry in the areas of education, knowledge, and sustainability.
GrootGroenPlus Trade Fair 2024: more trade fair, more participants, more visitors, and a more international character!
From 2 - 4 October 2024, the 34th edition of the GrootGroenPlus trade fair took place, achieving remarkable results and showcasing exciting developments once again. The fair featured three routes, 1.4 kilometres of walking paths, and 280 participants, with an increase in total square meters of trade fair space. Despite the larger area, the waiting list was longer than ever, though further expansion was not possible this year. Group participations from various regions and collaborations based on shared innovations contributed to an even more diverse pool of participants. The outdoor trade fair area continued its steady growth as well.
GrootGroenPlus welcomes around 140 students and pupils
Around 140 students and pupils visited the trade fair GrootGroenPlus, held from 2 to 4 October 2024.
Zunderts Groen Imago Prijs (ZGIP) goes to Boomkwekerij Dictus-Hereijgers (B123)
On Wednesday 2 October 2024, the jury from the Zundert municipality was present to decide the winner of the Zunderts Groen Imago Prijs. The jury included alderman Ralph Bogers, Ton van Beek, Layla Eve Claase, Tijmen Dekkers, Jacqueline Sprenkels, Isabelle Cordier, and Reg Nelemans.
Roelands Tree Nurseries BV (B019) wins the Jac. Lodders Award
On the morning of Wednesday 2 October 2024, the jury made its rounds at trade fair GrootGroenPlus to select the winners of the Jan van Dongen Award and the Jac. Lodders Award. The jury, consisting of Corné de Vooght, Marc Lodders, Corné Oostvogels, Diantha Slingerland, Jac van Nijnatten, Andreas Henk, Frank Nooijens, and Luuk Roozeboom, reviewed and evaluated all the stands along the three routes.
GreenGrandPrix judges issues 10 classifications
In 2024, a total of 28 plants were submitted for the GreenGrandPrix. The jury evaluated the plants in the stands of the participants, leading to engaging dialogues and sometimes lively discussions. Ultimately, the jury issued 10 classifications: 4 A's, 4 B's, and 2 C's.
GREEN - PROMISING COLOR - Polish nursery stock industry at a glance
The present situation of the Polish ornamental nursery stock sector can be briefly described as „promising but not quite predictable”. As in other countries, the extraordinary boom in the green industry triggered by the pandemic and lockdowns has weakened but has created new customers. Nevertheless, it’s time for more balanced operations and for overcoming challenges connected with the economy and the war in the neighbourhood.
Through innovation, Wilbert Stek strives for the highest quality cuttings
At Wilbert Stek they have been busy this past year. Innovating the range of cuttings plays a major role at this specialised cutting company in Gendt. During the upcoming edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus, the results of their efforts will be showcased. The truted and successful assortment will be presented in full, but Wilbert Stek will also highlight a few new additions, such as Hedera hibernica, Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' and Thuja in the paper plug. Wilbert van Luenen, owner of Wilbert Stek, is eager to see and hear the reactions.
New name, new products, new generation
For twenty years, the desired growth within the company was hindered, as it was located outside the designated tree nursery zone. However, thanks to a pilot program with the municipality and the water board, there are now opportunities that provide a future outlook and space for entrepreneurial spirit. So, be sure to visit Van Dijck Young Plants at GrootGroenPlus. They have much to share with you.
Automated cultivation system facilitates grower from A to Z
TTS Transplanting Services and OptiPlug are jointly showcasing a complete concept at GrootGroenPlus. A key part of this is a new fully automated planting machine from TTS, along with matching trays that can be filled with OptiPlug's paperpots. Other companies like Van der Avoird Trayplant and Van Schaik Rack Solutions are also involved in this collaboration. This way, growers can be fully supported with an automated cultivation system.
Traycon installs container fields with smart solutions
Traycon Projecten has already made a name for itself with the installation of container and tray fields. Using GPS technology, the specialised company from Sprundel precisely and efficiently carries out cultivation floor projects. For this, Traycon has its own extensive GPS-controlled fleet of machinery at its disposal. No-nonsense and no fuss, that's an important motto for the company's working method and customer approach. Director-owner Antoon Vissers of Traycon highlights the activities and latest developments of his company.
TH Machines builds innovative machines for pot nursery
TH Machines builds machines for horticulture and tree nurseries, mainly focused on cultivation in pots. The company started with the production of unique spacing forks, which are patented. With these, TH Machines, which is only about three years old, was already present at GrootGroenPlus in 2023. However, the company in Zundert is expanding its range of machines and solutions. Some of them will be showcased in October.
Remarkably wide range of cuttings at Weber
Weber Stekcultures has been in business for almost thirty years. In 2022, Raymond Weber and his partner Marleen Weber-Aasman took over the company. At GrootGroenPlus, both existing and new customers know where to find the company due to its wide assortment, licensed varieties, and quality. "You'll find virtually no weeds in our cuttings."
The power of the collective
One of the participants at trade fair GrootGroenPlus trade is the Coöperatieve Vereniging Treeport Zundert e.o. U.A. (Treeport), which consists of approximately 180 tree growers from the wider region. Treeport also actively collaborates with alliance partners, including the Brabantse Delta water board. Manager David Bömer says: "We engage in discussions with a positive, constructive attitude."
GGP, an appreciated and complete image!
On Wednesday 2 October, trade fair GrootGroenPlus will open its doors. For many companies, organisations, governments, and institutions in and around the tree cultivation industry, it’s an event to look forward to. For three days, participants and visitors from all over the world come together to showcase, view, and, most importantly, discuss products. This leads to many connections and transactions.
In the picture during GrootGroenPlus
The 34th edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus is just around the corner. For the second time, it will be held at the Business Centre Treeport site. The number of registrations is so high that the fair has decided to expand the trade fair floor. As always, there is a theme this year: In the pictureL. Erik Bastiaensen is a member of the board of GrootGroenPlus and he will give us an insight into the lead-up to the event.
Technology in the genes
One of the regulars at trade fair GrootGroenPlus is Elco Machinebouw; and the same goes for the upcoming edition. Outdoors, several machines will be showcased, mainly for plant harvesting and weed control, as well as for soil cultivation and crop care. But Sven and Niek Elst also have a story to tell. Plenty of reasons to visit the company's stand at the trade fair.