Sustainable Plant Production Masterclass Review

The Hort Science Masterclass series on Sustainable Plant Production has once again demonstrated its value to the ornamental horticulture sector, bringing together growers, industry experts and technical specialists for two highly practical, insight-led events, with around 90 attendees across both events.

Held at RHS Wisley and the Brockholes Conference Centre near Preston, the masterclasses focused on helping growers respond to increasing environmental, regulatory and economic pressures—while continuing to produce high-quality crops efficiently and sustainably.

Designed for bedding, herbaceous and hardy nursery stock growers, the sessions combined technical expertise with practical advice that attendees could apply directly to their businesses.

“Launched in 2017, ICL Hort Science events continue to grow in popularity,” says Matthew Miller, Marketing Communications Manager. “At RHS Wisley, we achieved our highest-ever attendance, demonstrating the industry’s appetite for practical innovations and knowledge sharing.”

Featuring the latest techniques and future-focused strategies in sustainable plant production, the masterclasses covered topics including nutrition and smarter growing approaches; solutions to current and future challenges; sustainable growing media and what comes next; and robust vine weevil control alongside other sustainable growing solutions.

A clear message from the series was the importance of supporting growers through a rapidly changing landscape. From sustainability targets and peat reduction to rising input costs, the masterclasses provided practical guidance to help businesses adapt.

The strong engagement across both events reflects the demand for research-led, practical learning that can be applied immediately in commercial growing environments.

While the 2025 masterclass series has now concluded, the insights shared will continue to support growers as they transition towards more sustainable production systems.

ICL remains committed to providing technical expertise, innovation and knowledge-sharing initiatives that help the horticulture industry meet future challenges with confidence.