Insights from Cultivate 2025: The Intersection of Politics, Technology, and Tradition in Horticulture

The horticultural landscape is ever-evolving, with new technologies and methods emerging alongside age-old traditions. Cultivate 2025 brought together industry leaders and innovators under one roof, providing a platform not just for education through formal sessions but also for vibrant discussions on the trade show floor. Below are some noteworthy takeaways from the event, showcasing the interplay between politics, technology, and the core relationships that shape the horticultural industry.

Longstanding Relationships

Horticulture, while embracing the future, still holds onto its roots. Many businesses in this domain are family-owned, often with decades of legacy. The camaraderie cultivated over years between growers and suppliers—whether greenhouse builders, control system developers, or brokers—reveals an industry built on trust and reliability. As new trends emerge, these enduring alliances remain pivotal, ensuring that the North American horticultural and floricultural sectors thrive, even amidst challenges.

Politics at the Forefront

Traditionally, politics was a topic best avoided at trade shows. However, this year marked a significant cultural shift, as discussions turned toward the tangible effects of politics on the industry. Topics like tariffs, market uncertainty, and immigration enforcement echoed through the booths. While attendees aimed to keep conversations non-partisan, the reality of these issues was ever-present, highlighting the increasing importance of political discourse in our evolving market.

Challenges with Substrates

This summer promises to be particularly challenging for substrate suppliers. Unfavorable weather conditions have hindered peat harvesting in the Baltic region, while varying supplies from Canada add to the uncertainty. With coco’s market under siege, industry players are keenly watching weather forecasts that could impact production and availability.

Substrate Alternatives and Automation

Given the pressure on conventional substrates, many are pivoting towards innovative alternatives. Blends of traditional materials with newer options, such as wood fibers and gels, are gaining traction. The demand for automation in horticulture is also accelerating as suppliers adapt their systems for compatibility with these new materials.

Organic Substrates and Soil Health

Amid the ongoing discussions surrounding substrates, the emphasis on soil health becomes increasingly important. North America stands at the forefront of this conversation, with fresh research and products enhancing our understanding of bionutrition and biocontrol. This growing momentum signifies a shift towards holistic growing practices focused on soil vitality.

Dynamic Offerings in Flowers and Plants

The floricultural scene is vibrant, with compact plant varieties taking center stage. The increasing consumer preference for fragrant offerings shows that scent is becoming a vital selling point. Not to be overlooked, the emergence of low-maintenance air plants and varieties that boast drought and heat resistance positions growers to meet evolving consumer demands head-on.

Sustainable Packaging Trends

Sustainability is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity. At Cultivate 2025, it was evident that the push for eco-friendly packaging solutions continues to gain momentum. Options such as biodegradable materials and recyclable plastics are on the rise, indicating a shift towards minimalist design. Interestingly, North American trends seem to lag about three years behind their European counterparts, with European aesthetics now influencing what’s being showcased at the event.

Integrated Crop Protection

As retailers assert more control over the products used in growing fresh produce, the development of integrated crop protection solutions becomes critical. A rising interest in biological crop protection methods highlights the importance of combining agricultural practices with soil health focus, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to sustainability.

The Changing Landscape of Acquisitions and Scaling Up

Though the cycle of acquisitions has slowed somewhat, it hasn’t come to a standstill. While the enthusiasm from external investors appears to have cooled, companies continue to seek expansion through peer acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Developments in the greenhouse vegetable sector remain active, especially among independent growers who are still being absorbed into larger entities.

The Role of AI and Automation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a hot topic, with industry reluctance about its adoption diminishing. While fully autonomous systems weren’t extensively discussed, the integration of AI tools for tasks like information processing and climate control is clearly on the rise. This gradual acceptance suggests a future where AI will play an increasingly significant role in horticultural practices.

Robotic Solutions in Response to Labor Challenges

With ongoing labor shortages and rising costs, robotic solutions are becoming increasingly vital for horticultural producers. The current government’s strict immigration stance and the lack of new visa programs amplify the urgency for automated solutions. This shift towards automation will allow producers to benefit from enhanced insights through sensor technology and better manage large-scale operations.

Bonus Tip

If you’re considering attending next year’s event, remember to bring a jacket! While the horticultural community is indeed warm and welcoming, the temperature on the trade show floor can often be surprisingly cool. For a glimpse of what attendees wore this year, check out the photo reports from the event.

Cultivate 2025 served as a reflective microcosm of the horticultural industry, shedding light on longstanding relationships while tackling contemporary challenges through innovation and collaboration. The discussions and insights gained here will likely shape the future of horticulture for years to come.