Gain first-hand insight into Belgian horticultural innovation
AIPH invites those in the horticulture industry to discover pioneering Belgian nurseries that are shaping the future of plant production during the 77th AIPH Annual Congress.
On 17th and 18th September 2025, the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) will take delegates on professional tours of leading Belgian horticultural businesses to learn from their successes.
These tours will provide a unique opportunity for delegates to connect with Belgian growers and to experience first-hand the innovations in sustainability and technology discussed during the AIPH International Horticultural Industry Conference on the 16th.
On Wednesday 17th, delegates will explore innovative businesses in the Ghent area, including:
- Koen & Louis De Nijs: A fourth-generation family business, the De Nijs nursery specialises in standard carnations. This tour will provide a fascinating glimpse into tradition, innovation, and intergenerational resilience in flower farming.
- Viaverda: Located in the heart of Belgium’s production zone, Viaverda leads applied research in ornamentals and sustainable horticulture. Their collaborative work spans trials, demonstrations, organic growing, and international knowledge sharing.
- Fleur: One of Belgium’s largest distributors of plants, flowers, and horticultural supplies, Fleur operates on a grand scale. The Cash & Carry model makes this a dynamic hub for landscapers, florists, and retailers.
The second day of tours, Thursday 18th, will take participants beyond Ghent to explore pioneering nurseries further afield in Belgium. Nurseries include:
- Plant Select: A category winner of the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards 2025, Plant Select is a leader in the field of young plants. Their all-in-one model—combining breeding, propagation, finished plants, and marketing at a single site—ensures consistent quality and seamless service.
- Romberama: The visit to Romberama offers a rare view into diversification, local production, and entrepreneurial innovation. The nursery combines sustainable amaryllis growing with one of Belgium’s last remaining berry farms, and had recently launched its own range of tea.
- Leybaert: Growing over 3.5 million ornamental plants annually, Leybaert has a reputation that spreads beyond Belgium’s borders. This family-run nursery has earned global recognition for its sustainable production practices.
- Dirk Mermans: Process automation is the cornerstone of Dirk Mermans’ operational excellence. From irrigation to climate control, they harness automation to optimise conditions, resulting in consistent, top-quality yields.
By joining these professional tours, delegates will gain a deeper understanding of how Belgian growers are leading the way in sustainable and efficient production. Lunch on each day will be provided by Viaverda and VLAM respectively. For more information and secure your place at the Congress, visit the AIPH website.
AIPH thanks: Congress Partner AVBS; Headline Sponsor Biblo; Industry Conference Headline Sponsors GLOBALG.A.P. and TTA-ISO; Expo Conference Gold Sponsors WeLodge and Mosimann’s; Industry Conference Silver Sponsor HORTICERT; Expo Conference Dinner Sponsor Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau; Industry Conference Partners Ciopora and Dutch Greenhouse Delta; and Media Partners FloraCulture International, FloralDaily, Guíaverde, and Thursd.