NGIV’s Inaugural Plant of the Year Award: Applications now open

By James Nicklen

In an initiative to celebrate excellence in the horticulture sector, Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria (NGIV) recently announced the inaugural Plant of the Year Award. This prestigious accolade aims to honour outstanding plant varieties, foster innovation, and educate the public about the latest advancements in the industry. We are now excited to announce that applications for the award are open and will be accepted until 28 October 2024.

The Plant of the Year Award aspires to set a new benchmark for excellence and innovation in horticulture. With a panel of esteemed judges from the horticultural community, the award process ensures a rigorous evaluation based on strict criteria. This initiative is designed to stimulate interest and recognise excellence in the horticultural field.

Award Categories and Criteria

To qualify for the award, plant entries must meet a minimum standard and be shortlisted as outstanding entries of the year. From this shortlist, leading plants in each category will be recognised.

The award categories include:

» Tree of the Year

» Shrub of the Year

» Herbaceous Plant of the Year (divided into annual and perennial categories)

» Other/Specialist Plant of the Year (including climbers/vines, edibles, succulents, and indoor/house plants)

The evaluation criteria encompass various aspects, such as the aesthetic appeal of the plant, its growth and performance characteristics, innovative qualities, and marketability potential. This thorough assessment ensures that only the most exceptional plants are recognised.

Fostering Innovation and Appreciation

The Plant of the Year Award promises to showcase the best and brightest in the horticultural world, from beloved traditional favourites to groundbreaking newcomers. By highlighting these exemplary plants, NGIV aims to inspire growers, gardeners, and plant enthusiasts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of the botanical world.

Applications

Applications for the Plant of the Year Award are now open and will be accepted until 28 October 2024. For more information on how to apply, visit plantoftheyear.com.au.

Stay tuned as NGIV prepares to unveil the winner of the inaugural Plant of the Year Award in 2025.

The 2025 Plant of the Year will join the ranks of these other award-winning plants:

1. The renowned Dreameria® ‘Dreamland’ (Armeria pseudarmeria hybrid) was the recipient of the esteemed Silver Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower and Garden Show and acclaimed Plant of the Year 2022. Photo credit: Julian Weigall

2. Dianthus ‘Memories’ (Dianthus x alwoodii), the recipient of the prestigious Gold Medal at the HTA National Plant Show UK 2012 and ‘Best in Show’ at HTA’s New Plant Awards. Photo credit: Sarah Cuttle

3. Salvia ‘Love and Wishes’ (Salvia buchananii hybrid) has garnered many accolades including third place in the UK Royal Horticultural Society’s Plant of the Year Awards 2015 and the prestigious Best in Show at the New Plant Awards during the UK Horticultural Trade Association National Plant Show 2015.