Highlights From Greenhouse Grower’s 2026 Evening of Excellence

By Brian D. Sparks|July 21, 2026

Greenhouse Grower’s Evening of Excellence awards event during Cultivate’26 was a chance to recognize innovation across the floriculture industry. Check out this slideshow for a closer look at all the festivities as well as the big winners!

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The Evening of Excellence offered a great chance to network with peers
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Evening of Excellence
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Evening of Excellence
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Evening of Excellence
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Spotlight Award Winner: Sustainabloom

Pictured: Dr. Melinda Knuth (North Carolina State University) and Debbie Chedester of American Floral Endowment
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Readers’ Choice Award Winner: Petchoa CitraNova Series (Ball FloraPlant)

Stephanie Vincenti, Ball FloraPlant
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Technology of the Year Winner: Pot-in-Tray Machine (BOLD Robotic Solutions)

The team at BOLD Robotic Solutions
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Industry’s Choice Award Winner: Rudbeckia ‘Claire Orange’ (Takii)

Mike Huggett, American Takii
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Industry Achievement Award Winner: Hans Hansen, Walters Gardens

Hans Hansen, Walters Gardens
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Operation of the Year: Spring Creek Growers, Waller, TX

The team at Spring Creek Growers
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Editor’s Choice Award Winner: Agastache ‘Honeysticks Gold’ (Dümmen Orange)

The team at Dümmen Orange
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Head Grower of the Year: Juan Ponce, Metrolina Greenhouses

Juan Ponce (center) with Greenhouse Grower Editor Brian Sparks and Contributing Editor Dr. Allan Armitage