Trade visitors can expect a rich mix of research insights.(Image credit: IPM ESSEN)

From 27 to 30 January, IPM ESSEN 2026 will once again position itself as the world’s leading horticulture trade fair, delivering an inspiring, future-focused programme across three specialist stages at Messe Essen.

Trade visitors can expect a rich mix of research insights, hands-on expertise and cutting-edge innovation at the Gardeners Forum (Hall 2), the Innovation Center Horticultural Technology (Hall 4) and the brand-new Woodland Arena (Hall 7).

Knowledge and market trends at the Gardeners Forum

The Gardeners Forum remains a key knowledge hub, tackling the most pressing issues shaping modern horticulture. Topics such as energy efficiency, CO₂ reduction, sustainable propagation systems, Gen Z consumer trends and artificial intelligence in global supply chains will take centre stage. Highlights include Fred Kruisselbrink’s sessions on energy efficiency strategies, Floris Tas’ presentation on the substrate-free rooting system ‘RCS 2.0’, and Leon Hünting’s talk, ‘Customers of the future: How we as breeders prepare our partners for Gen Z’.

A panel discussion will explore how Fairtrade is empowering women in global cut flower supply chains, while Oboya CEO Robert Wu will share insights into AI-driven supply chain optimisation. Additional contributions come from leading names such as Bailey Nurseries, Florensis, Landgard and Ulmer Verlag.

Digitalisation and technology in Hall 4

In the Innovation Center Horticultural Technology, the spotlight is firmly on digitalisation, automation and climate-smart solutions. Visitors can discover digital pest detection from PurPest, peat substitute strategies from Gramoflor, and bio-based polymers presented by NTIC Europe. One standout session promises new approaches to urban greening through biochar substrates and satellite-based monitoring, highlighting measurable climate impact. Universities, research institutes and tech pioneers round out a highly practical, innovation-driven agenda.

Trees, cities and climate resilience in the Woodland Arena

New for 2026, the Woodland Arena addresses urban greenery, sustainable trees and climate adaptation. Expert talks cover biodiversity, flood-resilient plants, future urban trees and climate-resilient city planning. Sessions such as ‘Urban trees under stress – water availability, tree health and tree growth in urban environments’ underline the urgency of nature-based solutions for greener cities.

With its continuously updated programme, IPM ESSEN 2026 promises four days of inspiration, networking and forward-thinking ideas shaping the future of global horticulture.

The 2026 edition will take place from 24–26 March 2026. (Image credit: Hortiflora)

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 is set to return with even greater momentum, reflecting the rising global interest in Ethiopia’s flourishing horticulture and floriculture industry.

With its transition from a biennial format to an annual international trade show, the event aims to strengthen global connectivity, boost export opportunities, and further position Ethiopia as a leading producer of flowers, fruits, and vegetables on the world stage.

The venue for this major international event will be the Addis International Convention Center (AICC), located in Lemi Kura Sub City, Woreda 13, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—an accessible and modern hub for global business gatherings.

Organised by HPP Worldwide, the highly respected global exhibition organiser, HortiFlora Ethiopia has grown remarkably over the past two decades, supported by the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers Exporters Association (EHPEA). Reflecting on the notable success of the 2025 edition, Dick Van Raamsdonk of HPP Worldwide shared:
“Given the increasing international interest and significance of the event, HortiFlora will now have a transition from a biennial trade show to an annual one.”

The 2025 edition, held from April 1–3, achieved outstanding results with a record 140 exhibitors, elegantly designed stands, and strong visitor turnout. Van Raamsdonk added, “It was a highly successful event, featuring a record-breaking 140 exhibitors, stunning stands, and a consistent flow of visitors, including a strong international presence, particularly from the Middle East.”

A key highlight this year was the expanded product showcase. “The inclusion of fruit and vegetable growers alongside the traditional floral exhibitors significantly expanded the event’s scope,” Van Raamsdonk explained. This diversification underscores Ethiopia’s growing export potential in fresh produce, making the exhibition a comprehensive platform for the entire horticultural value chain.

The decision to transition HortiFlora Ethiopia into an annual gathering reflects the sector’s increasing importance. Van Raamsdonk emphasised that more frequent engagement is vital to support innovation, strengthen trade relationships, and accelerate industry growth. He stated, “With Ethiopia’s rising production of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables, an annual event will further strengthen the country’s export potential, stimulate its economy, and foster continued growth in the horticultural sector’s employment.”

HortiFlora Ethiopia 2026 promises to offer global exhibitors and buyers an unmatched platform for networking, market insights, product showcases, and business expansion.

Must-see highlights at DLG Feldtage 2026. (Image credit: DLG)

From 16 to 18 June 2026, Bernburg in Saxony-Anhalt will once again become the central hub for modern crop production as the DLG Feldtage returns to the fields of the International DLG Crop Production Centre.

Set on DLG’s expansive 600-hectare trial farm near Leipzig, the open-air event is gearing up to showcase practical farming innovations under the inspiring theme “Crop Production out of the Box”. With more than 150 exhibitors already registered, the organisers are still welcoming further participants via dlg-feldtage.de.

Recognised as the leading international field exhibition for crop professionals, DLG Feldtage brings together farmers, agronomists, machinery experts and researchers seeking hands-on insights into the future of crop production. This year’s programme spans everything from plant breeding and crop protection to fertilisation strategies and cutting-edge agricultural machinery. Visitors can look forward to a rich mix of demonstrations, expert knowledge and real-world trial plots, supported by popular formats including DLG Spotlights, Expert Stages and Pop-up Talks.

The thematic DLG Spotlights are set to be a major draw. The “Planting Green” Spotlight will delve into direct drilling into living cover crops, with live plots demonstrating soil-friendly techniques, nutrient efficiency and modern weed management approaches. Equally compelling is the “Value Chain for Quality Wheat” Spotlight, which traces how premium wheat quality is upheld from field to processing, illustrating the collaboration required across agriculture, trade and milling. Meanwhile, the “Organic Farming” Spotlight will highlight diverse rotations, robust crop choices and practical advice for organic growers looking to refine both production and marketing.

Across the site, visitors will find dedicated meeting zones for discussions on oil and protein crops, resilient cropping concepts and strategies for navigating weather-related risks. As always, machinery demonstrations are a core attraction. Across six themed areas from direct seeding and deep tillage to mechanical weed control 66 machine combinations will take to the field, each accompanied by expert commentary and presented once per day.

Following its successful debut in 2024, FarmRobotix returns with the latest robotics, automation tools and AI-driven innovations for crop production. A special demonstration area will spotlight autonomous field systems, offering a glimpse of how technology may redefine farming in the years ahead.

Beyond the plots and machines, the DLG Plaza will serve as the social and professional heart of the event, hosting expert talks, panel sessions, regional food and relaxed networking. Short and sharp Pop-up Talks will take place at exhibitor stands and Spotlight areas, covering timely topics such as fertilisation and crop protection. The popular DLG CropNight will also make its return, inviting attendees to unwind with live music, food and summer drinks. Camping facilities will be available for visitors wishing to stay on site.

For more information please visit www.dlg-feldtage.de

Visitors will explore how horticulture can embed sustainable business practices. (Image credit: IPM ESSEN)

From 27 to 30 January 2026, Messe Essen will once again become the beating heart of the global green industry as it hosts IPM ESSEN 2026.

The world-leading trade fair will bring together the entire horticultural value chain, offering a comprehensive look at plants, technology, floristry, garden features and the emerging trends shaping the horticultural future. This upcoming edition places strong emphasis not only on new products, but on the strategic transformation of the industry itself.

Visitors will explore how horticulture can embed sustainable business practices, harness the growing influence of artificial intelligence, captivate modern consumers and attract the skilled professionals and young talent the sector urgently needs. As Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, explains, “IPM ESSEN is the place where the green sector collectively tackles global challenges – in a practical, international and inspiring way. Our visitors experience not only trends but also viable solutions – from climate-resilient plants and new training concepts to sustainable technology.”

With around 1,400 exhibitors from 45 countries expected, the fair will serve as a major platform for ordering, networking and knowledge-sharing. Familiar industry leaders such as Florensis, Scheurich, Soendgen Keramik and Koopman International will return, showcasing the innovative products and services that continue to shape international horticulture. As in previous years, the exhibition grounds will be fully occupied and clearly organised by theme, ensuring smooth navigation for professional visitors.

The plant halls will display the sector in all its diversity—from perennials and young plants to herbs, balcony plants and cut flowers. A core focus will be plants that can withstand the realities of climate change, including drought-tolerant and heat-resistant species. Hall 2 will welcome the Gardener Forum, offering expert lectures on production, marketing and technology. A new highlight, the Wood Arena in Hall 7, will explore future-proof tree assortments for cities, forests and private gardens, alongside biodiversity-enhancing hedges. Messe Essen will also host the Green Cities Europe Award for the second year, celebrating impactful urban greening projects. Additionally, the Landgard Order Days | Spring Edition return in Hall 1A, providing a compact, inspiration-filled ordering platform.

Technology remains central to the future of horticulture, and IPM ESSEN 2026 will showcase cutting-edge solutions in automation, digitalisation and resource efficiency. The Horticultural Technology Innovation Center in Hall 4 will present forward-looking approaches to energy saving, water optimisation and logistics. The Cannabis.NET special area, led by the University of Hohenheim, will give insight into scientific developments in cannabis research. Hall 4 will also host the Horticultural Information Center, featuring practical demonstrations on peat-free substrates, biostimulants and novel cultivation techniques, and will present the IPM Novelties Showcase, awarding the top plant innovations on the first day.

Country pavilions from across Europe, Asia and the Americas will highlight global expertise and trade opportunities, with participation from Turkey, France, Denmark, Italy, the UK, Poland, Portugal and Israel. A stronger focus on the next generation will be seen through Training Day, the Careers + Future Forum, and the debut Young Entrepreneurs Day, featuring a keynote by musician and entrepreneur Joey Kelly.

Alongside the fair, the Congress Center Essen will host the BdB seminar and the “GaLaBau Outlook” congress, offering professional insight into urban greening and landscape architecture.