International novelties and concepts honored

The Florall spring fair is considered an important meeting point for the international ornamental plant trade. Despite the fine weather, which attracted many consumers to garden centers, the event still recorded solid attendance from professional visitors from Belgium and abroad. Exhibitors presented a broad assortment of houseplants as well as a wide range of plants for gardens, patios and nurseries.

For the first time, the jury presented an award for the best trade fair stand. The initiative is linked to the project “Als ik jou was”, which supports ornamental plant growers in improving the way they communicate and present their products to customers. The award went to Decadt-Verhelst from Staden. The jury particularly highlighted the interactive stand concept with a rotating product display and clear product segmentation. The stand was also praised for successfully presenting herbs and vegetable plants in an attractive way, which is often considered difficult.

In addition to the stand award, the professional jury evaluated nine new plant varieties and one marketing concept. Criteria included climate resilience, future potential, distinctive character, added value within the existing assortment and overall impression.

• The gold medal went to Phillyrea angustifolia ‘Grand Prix’, a drought-tolerant Mediterranean hedge plant with dense, upright growth.
• Silver was awarded to Agapanthus africanus ‘Lady Lauren’, a pure white flowering variety notable for its many flower stems and long flowering period.
• Bronze went to the compact lilac introduction Syringa ‘Smnsdtp’ (Proven Winners Baby Kim).

In the concepts category, “Treewrap” received the gold award. The labeling system is based on a reusable plastic fastening strap that adapts to different trunk thicknesses and reduces the risk of stem constriction. © Florall

The public award went to Viburnum plicatum ‘PIIVIB II’ (First Editions Opening Day), a compact ornamental shrub with striking spring blooms and decorative autumn coloration. © Florall

The next edition of Florall will take place on August 25, 2026 and will mark the autumn edition of the trade fair.