As part of its ongoing programme of workshops, masterclasses, and sharing of best practice via the Nursery Network group, Horticultural Trades Association members had the opportunity to join a three-day study tour in Denmark, visiting a series of growers and businesses.
HTA members toured five nurseries, from 8 to 10 July, which produce a range of field-grown ornamental and forestry crops, container-grown trees, shrubs, roses, and herbaceous plants. They saw first-hand some of the latest products and practices being adopted by Danish businesses and discussed the challenges they face in adapting to customer needs, labour costs, technology and the control of pests and diseases.
Wayne Brough, Technical Horticulture Manager at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said:
“I was delighted to lead this month’s HTA Danish study tour. These visits provide a fantastic opportunity to get off the nursery, network with like-minded people within the group, and explore new ideas and ways of thinking.
“We took in five nurseries whilst we were in Denmark, and it was good to see how they are addressing their own issues, such as high labour costs, extensive restrictions on the availability of plant protection products, and the requirements of marketing into several other countries, not just their own.
“I hope our members benefited from the visit and were able to exchange ideas and views with our European counterparts. I look forward to seeing some of the ideas and equipment implemented in the UK as a result.”
Simon Scarth from Chew Valley Trees, said:
“The HTA study tour to Denmark was a valuable and inspiring experience, with the biological control of pests and the efficiency of the nurseries particularly impressive. It was fascinating to see how Danish growers combine innovation with sustainability. A well-organised trip that offered both learning and networking opportunities.”
Alex Bell from Crowders Nurseries commented:
“An informative tour covering a wide range of ornamental horticulture with different operations and perspectives. The HTA arranged transport and timings to maximise our stay and travel in comfort. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to connect with different people and have informative conversations. I would recommend this trip to more people.”
Ray Jenkins from RJ Trees and Hedging added:
“The HTA study tour offers a fantastic insight into the knowledge sharing between so many different growers. I have always found them well supported by growers, and hopefully, many future tours will be supported by the HTA.”
HTA members can access online resources that support growers with networking, learning, and developing their businesses, as well as find out about upcoming events. The HTA’s Grower Technical Support also covers various areas, including crop protection, sustainability matters such as peat-free growing and water use efficiency, cultural and crop production issues and the latest research and news.
