Networking and knowledge sharing with propagators and partners in the horticulture industry, that’s what Grodan’s International Propagation Seminar (IPS) is all about. 2023 marks its 10th anniversary. Knowledge Manager and IPS host Andrew Lee reflects and looks ahead.
How it all started
The IPS was born by transforming the Mediterranean Propagation Seminar, which was being held in Greece, Italy, and Spain up until 2013, into a truly international event. The first internationally focused IPS was held in Delft, and the Netherlands has been the destination each September ever since.
Tremendous interaction
A 10th anniversary is quite a milestone. Looking back over the last ten years, Lee shares his views on the main challenges and gains with IPS. “The main challenge is, of course, finding something that excites the target audience, high-tech professional plant propagators, year-on-year. Not only that but making the discussion points relevant to a truly international audience,” says Lee. Nevertheless, the efforts have been worth striving towards, and the main gain has been developing a community for propagation worldwide. In doing so, Grodan explicitly invites key players in the propagation industry to share their innovations and experiences, inspiring both propagators and other companies. Lee explains: “as we witnessed the community develop, we now see tremendous interaction between companies who use this event to exchange knowledge and to build and strengthen relationships.”
Sustainability & Productivity
This year’s theme for IPS is “Sustainability & Productivity.” Grodan feels the shared responsibility that all businesses have when it comes to sustainability. It is what society expects while at the same time, it should also drive productivity increases. “Sustainability and productivity are common goals for everyone!” remarks Lee. “It goes without saying that productivity is the mainstay of greenhouse horticulture, and further increases in productivity will contribute to a more intensive and more sustainable business model.”
Advancing together
So what happens next? As the event further develops, Lee looks ahead: “I foresee wider participation from within the horticultural supply chain and more and more input from the scientific community. That as a sector, we advance together.” Grodan continues to stimulate opportunities for delegates to present their own case studies in this forum.
The 10th edition takes place in September
This year’s Grodan International Propagation Seminar is held on September 20th and 21st in The Netherlands. Once again, offering engaging conversation, an exciting agenda, and thought-provoking market visits. Attendance is by invitation only. Stay tuned for more information.
