Entries are now open for the International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards 2026, organized by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). Launched in 2009 by AIPH with support from FloraCulture International (FCI), these awards showcase excellence and achievements in the horticultural industry. The awards recognize best practices in horticulture by ornamental production nurseries worldwide.
Not only do the honors champion outstanding achievements in the sector, but they also offer a unique opportunity for international networking across the ornamental horticulture industry. Growers, horticultural businesses, and industry peers can all get involved by entering the competition, sponsoring the event, or attending the reception and awards ceremony. So, this is what you’d want to know about the 2026 IGOTY.
Entries Now Open Across Four Distinct Categories
The 2026 edition of the IGOTY Awards—which have become a benchmark for innovation and expertise in the industry—is now open for admission across four distinct categories: Finished Plants & Trees, Young Plants, Cut Flowers & Bulbs, and Sustainability. From these categories, one exceptional grower will be crowned the 'AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026' and receive the coveted Gold Rose, the industry's most prestigious prize.
The judging process is rigorous, with a panel of industry experts assessing entrants based on five key criteria: economic performance, innovation, market insight, sustainability, and human resources policy. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that the awards truly honor the most outstanding growers making a positive impact.
Participating in the IGOTY Awards offers numerous benefits. Growers gain international recognition, free media coverage, and opportunities to network with industry leaders and peers. Finalists receive complimentary tickets to the awards ceremony and are featured in promotional materials.
To enter the IGOTY Awards 2026, growers must submit their applications online by July 6, 2025, in an application process that is designed to be straightforward, with support available for those who need assistance completing the entry form.
Inspiring the Broader Horticultural Community to Adopt Best Practices
The IGOTY Awards celebrate individual achievements and inspire the broader horticultural community to adopt best practices, innovate, and prioritize sustainability. Identifying, honoring, and rewarding excellence means these awards contribute to the advancement of the industry as a whole, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and environmental management.
In January 2025, La Gaitana Farms from Colombia was announced as the International Grower of the Year 2025 and presented with the coveted Gold Rose by Daan de Vries, the CEO of Headline Sponsor MPS. La Gaitana Farms cultivates a wide variety of flowers with the utmost respect for the environment and communities. The family-owned, independent company grows carnations and produces bouquets from its 43 hectares of cropping area. Its commitment to sustainable practices, technological innovation, and social responsibility, therefore, positions it as a trusted supplier in international markets.
When awarded, Camilo Bleier, General Manager of La Gaitana Farms, noted:
“It is a big challenge to step into these shoes and keep improving every day, but we have done our homework. It is a pleasure to be in this industry; it is fun every day, and you can never grow tired of nature.”
Celebrating the Best in Horticulture and Inspiring Continued Innovation and Excellence
In recent years, La Gaitana Farms has continued to exemplify the high standards and commitment to sustainability that the IGOTY Awards represent through its dedication to environmental respect and community engagement. This sets a model for other growers worldwide.
About the 2026 edition: the IGOTY Awards promise to be another exceptional event, celebrating the best in horticulture and inspiring continued innovation and excellence. Growers from around the world are encouraged to participate and showcase their achievements on a global stage. Embracing sustainable practices, prioritizing quality, and demonstrating a commitment to their communities enables them to position themselves as leaders in the industry and contribute to a better horticulture community.
Entrants can apply for the IGOTY Awards 2026 online, with entries closing on Sunday, July 6, 2025. Judging will then take place by a panel of industry experts who will assess the entrants based on the five key criteria. All winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in January 2026 alongside the IPM Essen. For more information about the IGOTY Awards and to enter, visit the International Grower of the Year Awards Event Page. For questions about entering the awards, contact: events@aiph.orgevents@aiph.org.
Feature image by @dummenorangeeu, header image by Decorum.
