Floriculture, European Style

For 2007, the National Floriculture Forum (NFF) is doing something new — traveling to Europe. We will first spend four days in the Netherlands visiting the Dutch Auction, pot plant growers and other horticultural sites. Then we will travel down to Essen, Germany to spend two days at the International Trade Fair for Plants (IPM). IPM is a unique combination of exhibition areas, plants, technology and floristry that offers a comprehensive overview of the green industry. With 1,400 exhibitors from 41 countries and 62,100 trade visitors every year from all over the world, the IPM ESSEN show is the world's largest event of its kind. This is where the decision-makers of international floriculture meet to invest, conclude business transactions and expand business relations.

The dates for the 2007 NFF are January 21-28, arriving in the Netherlands on January 22. The group will then travel to Essen, Germany by bus for the IPM show before returning to Holland. At this time, the cost of the trip, including a group flight from Newark, N.J., bus transportation, breakfasts and hotel accommodations (2 people/room) is approximately $1,589. Funding is currently being solicited to cover expenses.

The National Floriculture Forum brings together academics, government officials and industry leaders from across the United States and Canada. All floriculture professionals are invited to attend. It is an opportunity to meet and share ideas and update your understanding of what's happening in our industry, without scientific presentations and committee meetings. To be placed on the mailing list for further information, contact Mark Bridgen at mpb27@cornell.edu or 631-727-3595.