Chris is off to the IPPS European Conference

A management trainee at one of the UK’s leading nurseries will this month (July, 2017) be attending the 2017 IPPS European Region Annual Conference as part of the 6 Packer Award.

Twenty-three-year-old Chris King, who works at Wyevale Nurseries, has been selected as one of 10 students/young horticulturists to be sponsored to attend the conference in Alphen en Rijn, Netherlands from July 10 until 14.

Chris, who lives in Hereford, said: “I am very excited to have won a place in the 6 Packer Award. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to visit some of the leading nurseries in the Netherlands, including Rotjes young plants, Deliflor Chrysanthemums, Alkemade boomkwekerij and many others. Here I will see the latest innovations and technology used to produce plants.

“There will also be presentations from speakers based across the globe regarding the latest production techniques, marketing ideas and technical developments in horticulture. The conference also gives a superb opportunity to network and establish connections with some of the leading horticulturists from around the world.

“I have been chosen to attend the conference for free in return for a small amount of help during the event.”

The 6 Packer Award was open to anyone under the age of 30, who is currently working in commercial ornamental horticulture or is currently studying to enter the industry. IPPS European Region will cover all reasonable travel costs, board and lodging and conference fees.

Chris, who is originally from Hemel Hempstead, graduated from Writtle College with a BSc in Horticulture in September 2015. Prior to his role with Wyevale Nurseries he worked at Aylett Nurseries in St Albans.

Ben Gregory, Product Development Manager at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “As a previous recipient of this award, I cannot stress how much of a great opportunity this is to make connections with horticulturists around the world and to develop understanding of the latest goings on in the industry.

“I am delighted that Chris has been chosen. He will have a fantastic time and will learn so much.

“Here at Wyevale Nurseries we are keen to invest in the future of horticulture and this year we also sponsored £600 towards the IPPS 6 Packer Award.”

For further details about Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, please call 01432 845 200, visit www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk, follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/WyevaleNurs or log on to www.facebook.com/WyevaleNurs.