Hillier 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.
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"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."
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Category winners
Henil Vashi, a Horticultural Advisor at Robin Tacchi Plants in the UK, received the Young International Grower of the Year (YIGOTY) Award at the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) awards ceremony.
This award is part of the AIPH International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards 2026, which
celebrates the best of the best in ornamentals production. The Young IGOTY category recognises vibrant young professionals who will lead the industry into the future. Entrants were participants of Jungle Talks' Pro Manager Mastercourse.
At Robin Tacchi Plants, Henil Vashi advises on large-scale ornamental plant production across
multiple nursery sites, overseeing more than one million plants annually. His role spans crop production, propagation, and detailed crop monitoring, with a strong focus on integrated pest management, biosecurity, and staff development. Henil has played a key role in advancing sustainable production practices, including the successful introduction of peat-reduced and peat-free growing substrates, achieving a 30% reduction in peat use while improving crop quality.
"I'm really happy to win this award," Henil commented. "I'm really thankful for everyone who has helped me throughout my journey to be here. I'm grateful to AIPH and Jungle Talks for this incredible recognition."
Henil, along with the other finalists, presented his ideas to an international jury of horticultural professionals. The judges were: Leonardo Capitanio, President of AIPH and owner of Vivai Capitanio, Italy; David Marin, Past YIGOTY winner and a Director at Deliflor Americas S.A.S, Colombia; and Puck van Holsteijn, CEO of World Horti Center and CEO of HortiHeroes, Netherlands.
"Henil stood out for his energy, curiosity, and ambition," said Puck van Holsteijn. "He is eager to keep learning, highly focused on what he wants to achieve, and ready to create meaningful impact. His international perspective and innovative mindset show a clear understanding of where our industry is heading."
In the Finished Plants and Trees category, Hillier Nurseries LTD, UK was named the winner. Fitoralia, Spain, and Kwekerij Dirk Mermans, Belgium were the finalists.
The Young Plants category was won by Longchi Mudan Industrial Co., LTD, China, with Chengdu Yimei Horticultural Technology Development Co., LTD, China, and Jiuquan Lanxiang Horticultural Seedling Co., LTD, China listed as finalists.
In the Cut Flowers and Bulbs category, Yunnan Holyflora Horticulture Co., LTD, China took the top prize, while Flores El Capiro S.A., Colombia, and Herburg Roses Group, Netherlands were the finalists.
Hillier Nurseries LTD, UK also won the Sustainability category. The other finalists were Flores El Capiro S.A., Colombia, Herburg Roses Group, Netherlands, Kisima Farm LTD, Kenya, and 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 was acknowledged. Beijing Green Garden Group Co., LTD, China received recognition in the Finished Plants & Trees category, while Kisima Farm LTD, Kenya was acknowledged in the Cut Flowers & Bulbs category.
You can find our photo report for the event here.
For more information:
AIPH
[email protected]
www.aiph.org
