UK: HTA receives highest number of entries ever for Grower of the Year award

The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has received the highest number of entries for this year's Grower of the Year Awards, celebrating excellence in UK nursery production.

From exceptional individuals to outstanding businesses, the HTA Grower of the Year Awards showcase the highest standards in quality, service, innovation, and sustainability practices.

The winners will be announced at the dinner ceremony following Horticulture, The Conference on 25 September 2025 at the Barbican Centre in London. The award winners will also be eligible to enter the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards.

Will Armitage, President of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) and a judge at this year's awards, said: "It is great to see so many new names on the ever-increasing, record-breaking list of entries in this year's HTA Grower of the Year Awards. The high caliber of entries from individuals and businesses reflects the strength of UK nurseries that lead in quality, service, and innovation.

"These awards recognize and celebrate our members for excellence in production horticulture and are a perfect way of reminding their customers how good they are. Every entrant is worthy of an award, so being shortlisted is an achievement in itself. The judges and I will have our work cut out selecting the winners."

© Horticultural Trades AssociationThe representatives for David Austin Roses and Double H Nurseries share their award for 2024

For 2025, the HTA has introduced a new £1,500 bursary for the winner of Young Grower of the Year - a category that has received a record number of entries. This new initiative is designed to invest in the future of UK environmental horticulture by supporting early-career professionals (under the age of 35) working in ornamental plant production. The award and accompanying bursary recognize dedication, talent and potential among the industry's rising stars.

Henil Vashi from Robin Tacchi Plants was last year's HTA Young Grower of the Year winner. He commented: "Winning the award was such a proud moment – not just for me, but for everyone at Robin Tacchi Plants. It's opened so many doors and given me the chance to represent the UK internationally – something I never imagined doing so early in my career."