To celebrate the 21st anniversary of BOPP (British Ornamental Plant Producers’ certification scheme) a special event for the ornamentals sector is being held on Tuesday 18 July at the HTA offices at Chilton in Oxfordshire.

This one day industry seminar will inform members on current industry issues, discuss the importance of certification in the sector and mark the milestone in BOPP’s history.

A two-course celebratory lunch will also be provided at the new headquarters of the HTA, which is the home of the BOPP Certification Scheme.

Confirmed speakers include Ed Birchall from APHA, Dr Gracie Barrett a AHDB Fellow at RHS Wisley and John Adlam.

Ed Birchall will provide an update on the current threat of Xylella outbreaks in the UK, as well as highlighting other relevant non-native species threats and the work of APHA to protect the UK.

Dr Gracie Barrett has been undertaking a AHDB Fellowship at RHS Wisley to look at Sustainable Resource Use in Horticulture (CP095). The project has taken a systems approach to delivering high quality plants grown in sustainable substrates, with efficient water use and novel nutrient uses. The presentation will provide an update on the project.

John Adlam from Dove Associates is a well-known figure in the horticulture industry and will be explaining to members how to develop a water management plan, which is one of the BOPP requirements. He will also explain recent changes in water legislation.

Also, joining the programme of speakers are Catherine Dawson from Melcourt Industries Ltd, and Raoul Curtis-Machin, HTA’s Director of Horticulture.

Catherine Dawson is the Technical Director of Melcourt Industries Ltd, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of sustainable growing media and bark products. She will provide an update on the Responsible Sourcing of Growing Media Scheme (P4).

Raoul Curtis-Machin will explain to delegates the recent activity to develop a Plant Health Management Scheme, as well as providing a policy update on neo-nicotinoids and other relevant issues to members.

The afternoon session will focus on the past, present and future of the BOPP Certification Scheme. A brief history and testimonials from members will be presented to mark the anniversary event.

The afternoon session will conclude with a motivational presentation from adventurer and personal trainer, Jason McKinlay. Jason will draw on the diverse range of endurance challenges and adventures he has taken on, which range from the Jungle Ultra Marathon, to the Mount Everest Marathon, Marathon des Sables in the Sahara, and most recently, his record breaking 2000-mile non-stop row around the British Isles.

You can book book now via this link