| Hillier Nurseries, UK, wins AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026Hillier Nurseries LTD, a UK-based producer of shrubs and trees, has been awarded the title of International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) 2026 by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). The coveted ‘Gold Rose’ award was presented to Hillier Nurseries by Linda Hoogendoorn-Veelenturf, CEO of MPS Group – Headline Sponsor of the Awards – at a ceremony held on Tuesday 27 January 2026 at IPM Essen, Germany. Founded in 2009, the AIPH IGOTY Awards recognise best practice in horticulture by the top ornamental production nurseries from around the globe, celebrating the expertise and energy they give to horticulture. Hillier Nurseries’ success is rooted in blending traditional craftsmanship with scientific precision. More than 20,000 trees are hand-budded and grafted each year by multi-generational growers, ensuring exceptional quality and resilience. At the same time, Hillier invests in advanced technology, including a climate-controlled growing house with sensor-led irrigation and DEFRA-funded water management projects, improving crop consistency while reducing water and energy use. “This is a remarkable moment,” said Adam Dunnett, Production and Amenity Director at Hillier Nurseries. “I’m very proud of the team and I’m delighted that they’ve been recognised. Thank you to the jury and the other finalists. We’ve got a fantastic sector across the world. I’m proud to be part of this amazing industry.” In addition to the Gold Rose Award, Hillier Nurseries also won the Finished Plants and Trees category, presented by Jack Goossens, AIPH Vice-President, and the Sustainability category, presented by Alison Jobic, Key Account Manager for Agraya. The Jury commented: “Hillier Nurseries Ltd demonstrates outstanding leadership through its long-term commitment to plant quality, innovation, and sustainable nursery practices. Their influence on horticultural excellence and the wider landscape industry makes them a truly deserving IGOTY winner.” Category Winners Young International Grower of the Year Winner: Henil Vashi, Horticultural Advisor, Robin Tacchi Plants, UK Finalist: Tatiana de German Ribon, CEO, Flores La Conchita, Colombia Finalist: Cauê Gomes Fogagnoli, Technical Director and Partner, Sítio Kolibri, Brazil Finished Plants and Trees Winner: Hillier Nurseries LTD, UK Finalist: Fitoralia, Spain Finalist: Kwekerij Dirk Mermans, Belgium Young Plants Winner: Longchi Mudan Industrial Co., LTD, China Finalist: Chengdu Yimei Horticultural Technology Development Co., LTD, China Finalist: Jiuquan Lanxiang Horticultural Seedling Co., LTD, China Cut Flowers and Bulbs Winner: Yunnan Holyflora Horticulture Co., LTD, China Finalist: Flores El Capiro S.A., Colombia Finalist: Herburg Roses Group, Netherlands Sustainability Winner: Hillier Nurseries LTD, UK Finalist: Flores El Capiro S.A., Colombia Finalist: Herburg Roses Group, Netherlands Finalist: Kisima Farm LTD, Kenya Finalist: Yunnan Holyflora Horticulture Co., LTD, China Certificates of Merit In addition to the category winners, AIPH recognised the efforts of two producers with Certificates of Merit. Although these entries did not reach the finals in their chosen category, their commitment to the industry is worthy of acknowledgement. Beijing Green Garden Group Co., LTD, China (Finished Plants & Trees category) Kisima Farm LTD, Kenya (Cut Flowers & Bulbs category) For more information about each of the winners, take a look at the digital Winners Brochure. Be the first to hear when entries open for the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards 2027 – Subscribe to the AIPH Newsletter. AIPH thanks Headline Sponsor MPS Group, Host Partner IPM Essen, Category Sponsors Chrysal and Agraya, Support Sponsor MyPlant&Garden, Flower Sponsors Floritec and VitroPlus, Founding Partner FloraCulture International, and Media Partners FloralDaily, HortWeek and Thursd. for their support. Source Hannah Pinnells, Agility PR |
Hillier Nurseries wins AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026
