Today, the Greater Columbus Convention Center will close the doors of the 90th edition of Cultivate. Over 650 exhibitors again presented their products and services for the US market. Until 2 pm, you still have a chance to visit the show and to take part in one of the final educational sessions.
So, how has it been so far? Over the last two exhibition days, the vibes have been positive and this is - according to many - mainly due to the fact that growers are doing well again. After some challenging years, the horticultural industry started about 2 to 3 years ago on its way up again. And if growers are doing well, breeders and suppliers are doing well too.
Growers are looking for new and improved varieties that fit the market demands and new automation solutions as there is a lack of labor and particularly skilled labor.
However, for many exhibitors, not just the growers are their main target group. This is the group that purchases their products, but as many large growers supply retail chains, it's important to get your product seen by this group as well. "If we can convince the retail about our product, they will eventually give the order to their grower to grow a particular variety, use a particular container and/or sleeve and so on", many say.
Regarding new packaging and new varieties, we have seen several trends, which we will discuss in tomorrow's newsletter.
For now, some pictures. The complete photo report will be published on Friday, July 19.
Chuck Pavlick of Terra Nova holding begonia Silver Treasure (left) and Artemesia Makana Silver (right). Together with Heuchera Grande Amathyst (on the ground, right side) they caught the eye of many visitors.
Arnaud Lannes of DHM Innovations presenting the new Mandevilla Diamantina Tourmaline Fuchsia.
Amr Dor and Lisa Heredia of Danziger with the series that are a hit in the US, namely Capella (on the right) and Amore (left).
Len Kapiteijn, Lennaert Kapiteijn and Wim Kleine of Kapiteyn presenting a part of their assortment, including the ones that are doing very well in the US market, like (fltr) Captain Cheerio, Captain Solo, Captain Beretta and Captin Lido.
The team of Kientzler, with the Paradis Rococo series in the background (left).
Jeffrey and his father Dick den Breejen presenting their large lily selection, which forms together with the ornamental roof panels the highlight of their booth.