IPM Essen 2023 Was a Return to Normal for Growers Around the World
January 27, 2023 
Photo; Messe Essen
“The joy that IPM ESSEN could finally take place again could be felt in every hall and at every stand.” This is how Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, summed up the long-waited reunion of the green sector in late January, which turned out to be more international than expected. More than 40,000 visitors from more than 100 countries came to Messe Essen to exchange information and to place orders. There was a wide range of products: 1,330 companies from 46 nations presented their innovations and new products in the fields of plants, technology, floristry, and garden features. Climate plants, environmentally friendly packaging, and peat alternatives were particularly on trend.
“The importance of IPM ESSEN for the global green industry remains high even after the pandemic. The internationality of the trade audience is close to the 2020 level. In view of the dynamic market situation of the last few years and the travel restrictions that are still noticeable, this is a great result,” Kuhrt said.
The proportion of trade visitors from abroad was 33%, compared to 40% in 2020. The 39th International Plant Fair in Essen once again proved to be a high-profile ordering platform: around 30% of visitors placed orders directly, and more than two-thirds plan to conclude deals after the fair on the basis of the contacts made and information received.
“In all halls, one could vividly experience what horticultural entrepreneurship is all about, be it new technology, new varieties, or new business ideas. This is how we can tackle the challenges of the industry” said Jürgen Mertz, President of the Central Horticultural Association (ZVG), the conceptual sponsor of IPM ESSEN.
Climate Change Concerns
Sustainable production is playing an increasingly important role in horticulture, including the responsible use of energy, water, fertilizers, substrates, and plant protection. Various start-ups presented solutions both in the new Horticultural Technology Innovation Centre and at the Young Innovative Companies stand. For example, CO2-storing plant charcoal made from biomass, which stores water and releases nutrients, was presented. In the area of pots, recycled plastic and compostable materials dominated. Also on display were smart transport and logistics solutions, as well as software.
When it came to plants, “green climate heroes” that can cope with drought, heat, and heavy rain were in high demand across all assortments. Special themed tours of sustainable plant ranges provided guidance. The increasingly warmer climate also allows actual houseplants and Mediterranean plants to thrive in the garden.
A Preview of 2023
IPM ESSEN 2023 was a top meeting place for florists from all over the world. Lots of flowers, few leaves, colorful retro looks, and powdery pastel brown tones in floral design were the predominant trends.
“IPM ESSEN 2023 has presented itself green, ingenious, and with a fantastic, innovative floriculture program. The sector is inspired, motivated, and very well positioned. What is also particularly remarkable is the great interest and motivation of young people: a great many vocational school classes took part in our guided tours this year,” said FDF President Klaus Götz.
Award ceremonies were also on the agenda at IPM ESSEN. On the first day of the fair, the best new plants were awarded prizes in the IPM novelty showcase:
- For Spring Flowering Plant, the Primula polyantha hybrid ‘Pollyanna’
- For Flowering Houseplant, the Anthurium andreanum ‘Anthfysan’
- For Green Houseplant, the Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Bikini’
- For Woody Plant, the Acer campestre ‘Street Pillar’
- For Tub Plant, the Mangave ‘Mad about Mangave Blazing Saddles’
- For Cut Flower, the Chamelaucium ‘Ever Flowering Wax’
- The Audience Award went to the Erysium hybrid RYSI TM ‘Winter Spirit’
In 2024, IPM Essen will take place Jan. 23-26.
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