From 27 to 30 January 2026, Flanders will once again position itself as an important driving force for global horticulture at the International Plant Fair (IPM) in Essen. With an attractive stand concept, innovative plant novelties and sustainable solutions, the region demonstrates why it has been a cornerstone of this leading trade fair for decades.
Since 1983, Flanders has been a reliable partner of IPM. In 2026, 33 Flemish exhibitors will once again make a significant contribution to the “Infinitely Green Diversity” showcased on the Essen stage. In addition to typically Flemish specialties – Ghent azaleas, Flemish laurel, and rhododendrons – the range includes everything that makes the green industry’s heart beat faster: from green and flowering potted plants to perennials and shrubs, as well as climate-resistant plants and trees. Flemish growers are also well equipped when it comes to innovative propagation techniques.
Three Collective Stands
The modern plant cube design, combined with the striking slogan “WE GROW YOUR WAY”, has long established itself as the distinctive trademark of the three VLAM collective stands.
In halls 2, 6, and 8, Flemish exhibitors will be present at the following locations:
- Hall 2 – Stand B 25, D 26 & D 30 Dataflor, Decock Plants, De Croock, De Vos-Hertschap, John De Wilde, Denis-Plants, Deroose Plants, FlorAmor - Hortinno, Helleborus, Herplant, Joluplant, Labeau Breeders, Plant Select, Vegobel, Siergrassen Gert Gernée, Rudy Raes Bloemzaden.
- Hall 6 – Stand C 26, C 31 & D 26 ADM Greentraders, Aarbomex, Boweco, Boomkwekerij Peers, Jules Block, CS-PLANT, Geert Bogaert, Calle-Plant, Goossens Raf, Heyeveld, Laurica-plants, BK Schepers, Vandamme Sierplanten, Van Poecke & zn.
- Hall 8 – Stand D 25, D 26 & D 28 Neyt-Van Sante, Sylva, Van Hulle B&C.
Two Flemish Novelties
The company Rudy Raes Bloemzaden is once again bringing exciting innovations to the 2026 edition of IPM, namely:
Primula acaulis ‘Frilly Peach Melba F1
This extraordinary primrose novelty stands out with its two-tone, elegantly fringed flowers in salmon and peach shades – inspired by the classic dessert “Peach Melba.” It brings a summery flair to the cold season and enriches any primrose assortment. The new variety blooms from January, offers excellent shelf life, and is ideally suited for larger pots. It has been registered for the IPM Innovation Showcase.
Primula acaulis ‘Frilly Snowball F1’
This primrose features unique, elegantly fringed flowers and, thanks to its very early flowering period and brilliant white color, is perfectly suited for the Christmas season. The novelty impresses with an exceptionally long shelf life and an abundance of strong blooms. Visually, it resembles a snowball. Thanks to its premium quality, ‘Frilly Snowball F1’ is also ideal for cultivation in larger pots and adds a distinctive touch to indoor spaces.
About Flemish Horticulture
Small area, big added value. The agricultural area of Flanders covers 619,806 hectares. Of this, horticultural companies – mostly family-run – cultivate 5,826 hectares. Most production takes place outdoors, while the greenhouse area amounts to 511 hectares. On average, a horticultural business covers 7.72 hectares.
Horticultural companies generate an annual turnover of €492 million, of which 39% comes from flowers and ornamental plants and 61% from the nursery sector. Flanders’ green industry is traditionally strongly export-oriented: 86% of exports go to intra-EU trade, 14% to third countries – of which 25% to the United Kingdom. Belgian specialties such as azaleas, begonias, and roses are particularly in demand outside the EU.
Responsible Resource Management
Innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship shape the work of Flemish horticultural players. With scientific support, new resilient plant varieties are being developed to better withstand the challenges of climate change. The use of alternative substrate mixes significantly reduces dependence on traditional, resource-intensive materials. Modern precision technologies optimize the use of water, nutrients, and crop protection products.
Priority is given to Integrated Pest Management over chemical applications – a key contribution to promoting ecological balance.
FLANDERSPLANTS.COM
On the online platform www.flandersplants.com , Flanders’ presence at IPM is prominently featured in the trade fair calendar. Interested visitors can find information about Flemish exhibitors before the event and browse their company profiles. In addition, the website offers comprehensive information on Belgian horticulture – including a supplier directory, product details, and company presentations.