The Horticultural Trades Association has launched an exciting new £1,500 bursary for the winner of the Young Grower Under 35 award – part of the prestigious HTA Grower of the Year Awards 2025.

This new initiative is designed to invest in the future of UK environmental horticulture by supporting early-career professionals working in ornamental plant production. Open to individuals under 35 employed by an HTA full member business, the award and accompanying bursary recognise dedication, talent and potential among the industry's rising stars.

The bursary can be put towards the cost of the Pro Managers Mastercourse, run by Jungle Talks or other professional development. Additionally, the HTA Young Grower of the Year winner will also have the option of representing the UK in the AIPH International Young Grower of the Year competition.

Pippa Greenwood, Horticulture Manager at the HTA, said:

"The HTA Grower of the Year Awards offer a great opportunity for our members to be noted, celebrated and given the recognition they so deserve. This new bursary is an exciting way to promote, encourage and support the fantastic younger talent coming through our industry."

From exceptional individuals to outstanding businesses, the HTA Grower of the Year Awards celebrate excellence in UK nursery production, showcasing the highest standards in quality, service, innovation, and sustainability practices.

Last year’s HTA Young Grower of the Year winner, Henil Vashi from Robin Tacchi Plants, shared the impact the award has had:

"Winning the award was such a proud moment – not just for me, but for everyone at Robin Tacchi Plants. It’s opened so many doors and given me the chance to represent the UK internationally – something I never imagined doing so early in my career. If you’re passionate about plants and horticulture, just go for it."

Robin Tacchi Plants also benefited from the exposure:

"Henil’s win shone a spotlight on our work – from sustainable growing methods to investing in our people. It’s great to have that recognised by the wider industry."

Reasons to enter or nominate:

• Be recognised for excellence in production horticulture
• Win an award and free tickets to the HTA Conference Dinner, where the awards will be presented on 25 September
• Eligible winners can go forward to the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards
• New £1,500 bursary for the HTA Young Grower of the Year to support professional development
• Enter now – and help us celebrate the future of UK Environmental horticulture.

The deadline for final entries is Friday, 25 July 2025.

Find out more and submit your entry at hta.org.uk/goty.