+ + + Hillier Nurseries Crowned International Grower of the Year 2026

Blending Tradition with Innovation

Hillier Nurseries impressed the jury by successfully combining traditional craftsmanship with scientific precision. While more than 20,000 trees are hand-budded and grafted annually by multi-generational growers, the nursery also invests in advanced technology. This includes climate-controlled growing houses with sensor-led irrigation and water management projects that significantly reduce energy and water consumption.

Success Across Multiple Categories

In addition to the overall "Gold Rose" title, Hillier Nurseries won in the categories "Finished Plants and Trees" and "Sustainability." Adam Dunnett, Production and Amenity Director at Hillier Nurseries, stated: "This is a remarkable moment. I’m very proud of the team and delighted that they’ve been recognised."

Young International Grower of the Year 2026

A major honor for young horticultural talent: Henil Vashi, Horticultural Advisor at Robin Tacchi Plants (UK), was named Young International Grower of the Year (YIGOTY) during the awards ceremony at IPM ESSEN on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

This category of the prestigious AIPH Awards recognizes vibrant young professionals who are set to lead the industry into the future. At Robin Tacchi Plants, Henil oversees the production of more than one million plants annually. He particularly impressed the jury with his commitment to sustainability, successfully achieving a 30% reduction in peat use while simultaneously improving crop quality.

The Jury’s Verdict: "Henil stood out for his energy, curiosity, and ambition," said judge Puck van Holsteijn. "He is highly focused, eager to keep learning, and ready to create a meaningful impact on the industry."

Established in 2009, the AIPH IGOTY Awards celebrate horticultural excellence and best practices among ornamental production nurseries worldwide.

Category Winner

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
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Finished Plants and Trees

• Winner: Hillier Nurseries LTD, UK
• Finalist: Fitoralia, Spain
• Finalist: Kwekerij Dirk Mermans, Belgium
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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.