26 Aug 2010

Colour your Life Seminar at this year's Glee 2010 exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham ((horticulture, garden centres, plants, Glee))

Colour your Life campaign seminar at this year's Glee exhibition at
the NEC in Birmingham.

At 10.00 AM on Wednesday September 22nd, at this year’s exhibition,
Phil Rogers, formerly of IKEA & Walmart UK, will be facilitating an
exciting retail seminar based on the Colour your Life campaign.

Real-life gardening retailers will be sharing their experiences of
using the materials and facilities on offer through Colour your Life.

The session is guaranteed to give you applied ideas to take back to
your own businesses and will be enriched by Phil's unique approach and
his learnings from working with internationally renowned IKEA &
Walmart.

Colour your Life exists to help boost business performance and through
this session you’ll learn how this has happened on the ground.  It
will be an interactive and informative workshop.

They are also offering free voucher codes for use on their on-line
poster service, free entry to GLEE, a show guide, fast-track entry to
the show & free parking,
 to the first 50 that register with them
before the event.  Email on contact@colour-your-life.co.uk

25 Aug 2010

Colour your Life Newsletter

Horticulture & Fresh produce News Ireland www.HortiTrends.com

 

 

Heading
Colour your Life trade newsletter- helping your business grow! September 2010
‘Bumper harvest’, with soft fruit including Rubus and Ribes 

Everyone knows the value of eating plenty of fresh fruit - what about getting some of it from your own garden! The boom in growing edible plants is set to continue and it’s easy to see why. What could be better than picking your own fruit that you’ve watched maturing over the weeks?


Be a real-food facilitator!

Take the chance to show to customers how easy it is and how much fun it can be to grow some of yourown. 

Try organising a soft fruit weekend with experts on hand (what about the WI?) to advise on the arts of jam making. Home grown fruit can also make an important contribution to a healthy diet.

Sign up for regular campaign updates on Twitter and Facebook or go to www.colour-your-life.co.uk for info, materials and ideas this autumn.

Plant choices ...


Retail results

In a garden centre in Holland an exciting trial is taking place. It revolves around the concept ‘what happens to sales when you make use of Colour your Life materials to their best potential?’ And the results are impressive! 

For the June roses promotion, on a ‘this year/last year’ comparison, look at the results: 

Climbing roses: 2009: 86 pcs / 67 customers, 2010: 105 pcs / 79 customers
Grafted roses: 2009: 2 pcs / 2 customers, 2010: 59 pcs / 58 customers

This centre increased turnover by 30% in this month alone.
.
The evidence is clear – investing  effort in POS = direct benefits in sales. 


Coming to GLEE this year?

If you are (and it promises to be a superb show this year), make sure you attend our seminar on 22 September at 10.00am with retail guru  Phil Rogers . Phil has over 30 years retail and talent management experience with giants such as Ikea and Asda.  He will be giving top tips on how to grow sales in your planteria! 
Email contact@colour-your-life.co.uk to register for the seminar – If you are one of the first 50 registrations, you will receive a free voucher to use on the Luma poster service site. Vouchers will be given when you arrive at the seminar. 

For more information contact Mark or Samantha on 01480 860426


What else will we be talking about?

Bumper Harvest tie-up with Garden Organic One-Pot-Pledge

Colour your Life is delighted to be working with Garden Organic in September to link ‘Bumper Harvest’ with their One-Pot-Pledge - a big push to get people who have never grown anything before, growing and eating their own produce. Launched earlier this year, it has been endorsed by some big names from Jamie Oliver, Bill Oddie and Jerry Hall to gardening champion Alys Fowler. 

Some big commercial names from horticulture are backing the campaign, as you will see on the website www.onepotpledge.org

September’s promotion is a great fit for the One-pot-pledge because some varieties of Rubus are so well suited to container growing and soft fruit like this is a great way in for novices to the world of grow-your-own. This is the time of year to promote all kinds of edibles, so why not give it special emphasis in the planteria this month. With two major campaigns pushing on the door too, what is there to lose? 

 

21 Aug 2010

Disease found in Japanese Larch Trees in Ireland

Latest H

orticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

Disease found in Japanese Larch Trees in Ireland

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is currently investigating a small number of cases of a disease affecting mainly Japanese larch trees in the Tipperary/Waterford region. The disease is caused by the pathogenPhytophthora ramorum, a fungus like organism that can damage and kill trees and plants it infects.

Following findings of the pathogen in Japanese larch trees in Great Britain in autumn 2009, the Department, on a precautionary basis, initiated a special survey here of Japanese larch growing adjacent to areas where rhododendron infected with P. ramorum had already been detected. In addition to the findings in a small number of larch trees, beech trees which were growing in proximity to the infected larch trees were also found to be infected as were two noble fir trees.

Japanese larch trees represent some 3% of the total forest tree population in Ireland. The bulk of the wood from infected trees can be used in the normal way provided the necessary hygiene measures are taken at felling and in sawmills.

There has also been a finding in Northern Ireland and the Department is liaising closely with the NI Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The Department is taking all necessary measures to establish the extent of the infection and to control the spread of the disease.

 

If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
 Latest News, Trends, Courses, Services, Products, Suppliers & Jobs for Horticulture & Fresh Produce - Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Nurseries, Landscape, Architecture,                                                                              Garden Centre, Florists, Arboriculture, Sports Turf, Green-keeping & Forestry Sectors.

'

20 Aug 2010

GLDA : UPCOMING DRAWING WORKSHOP_

 

 

Devil in the Detail: Cross Section and Construction Detailing Workshop

 

One of the biggest challenges that creative people face is how to realise inspired ideas into

technical details that can be easily interpreted by a landscape contractor.

 

Sectional elevations, construction details and a host of other technical plans are often

the downfall of even the best designers. And many of the most innovative ideas fail to be

realised because of limited understanding of what detail drawings should encompass.

Thankfully for Ireland’s budding designers, the Garden and Landscape Design Association

(GLDA) have come to the rescue. Responding to huge industry and public demand, two

of the GLDA’s key members, Jane McCorkell and Lisa Murphy, both renowned designers,

have developed a one-day detail drawing program created specifically to help people realise

their creative garden ideas. “The day will tackle a number of drawing types,” explained

Jane. “We will be providing tips and guidance on how undertake construction detailing for

gardens as well as insight into how to draught sectional elevations.” In addition to direct

instruction by the program leaders, the day will also include a number of hands-on exercises

that allow attendees to practice their new techniques under professional supervision.

 

The event, which is entitled Devil in the Detail...a guide to sectional drawings and

construction detailing, is being held on Thursday 23rd September at The Mill, Johnstown,

Naas, Co Kildare, and will run from 10am to 4.30pm. So if your looking to realise your

own garden ideas, seeking upskill your design drawing skills or simply frustrated with your

drawing abilities, then the up-coming GLDA drawing workshop is a must attend event.

 

For further information, to book your place (places are limited so please book early) or

to find out more about the GLDA, contact Annette McCoy on: Tel 01 294 0092, e-mail:

info@glda.ie , web: www.glda.ie

 

 

20 Aug 2010

Horticulture, Landscape and Sportsturf Management at UCD

Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

Interested in Horticulture? You might think that it’s just about gardening, but you’d be wrong! How about Sportsturf and Landscape Management, Floriculture or Social Horticulture?

 

Degree: BAgrSc (Horticulture, landscape and Sportsturf Management)

Direct entry CAO Code: DN048 or 

Omnibus entry CAO code: DN010             

Length of Programme: 4 years.                                 

Required Subjects: Irish, English, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject, two other recognised subjects. 

 

Introduction

Horticulture is the Art and Science of plant cultivation for human use. It is a topic that covers a vast and interesting range of subjects, including all of the sciences, plant protection (pests and diseases), environmental studies, business, management and communications, and of course growing plants. This degree offers a huge variety of career paths for those of you interested in working indoors or outdoors. 

With this degree you can choose the area you would like to concentrate on, pure horticulture or the management of plants in the landscape or the sportsturf industry. 

Sport and leisure has become very important in everyone’s lives. You could work and play at the same time with a career in the €750M sportsturf sector. By studying Sportsturf Managementyou could develop and maintain one of the 400 golf courses or thousands of tennis, football, rugby, bowling and other sports pitches in Ireland. 

If you like helping other people and you have felt the joy of sowing seeds and nurturing plants as they grow, you can combine these and study Social Horticulture. This area of horticulture studies the interaction between humans and plants and how you can use this knowledge to improve the lives of people. 

If food production is your interest or if you are concerned about globalisation and its impact on food supply, safety and quality then you can study Fresh Produce Production

Or if you are interested in growing plants then you can studyNursery, Garden Centre and Ornamental Plant Production. With the continuing dramatic increase in house building, road construction and other projects, the demand for plants, both for indoors and outdoor landscapes has exploded. 

If you are interested in an international career, using your French or Spanish language skills, then a career in Floriculture may be what you want? This sector produces and supplies flowers and pot plants valued at over €35M, which are sourced from all over the world, from countries such as Kenya, Israel, Bolivia, Columbia or South Africa. 

Find out what current a student thinks of the programme by clicking here.

 

Career Opportunities
All the above areas need highly trained individuals in management, technical advisory and consultation roles, research, quality assurance, sales and marketing positions, either working for the emerging large corporate companies active in this area or within your own business.

 

Programme Objectives
This degree programme is designed to help you acquire:

·

         
an appreciation of the importance of plants for human existence;

·

         
knowledge of the growth, development and protection of plants and use of plants for food, leisure, sports, social and environmental benefits;

·

         
an understanding of the Art and Science of plant cultivation for human use;

·

         
an understanding of horticultural plant production systems and how their components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner;

·

         
knowledge of the horticulture, landscape and sports turf industries in Ireland, the context in which they operate, and their relationship to such industries in Europe and worldwide.

 

As well as providing you with the principles, knowledge and skills directly related to the degree, it is also designed to help you develop your transferable skills, such as:

  • the ability to think analytically, solve problems, and be creative; 
  • enhanced leadership skills and
  • a range of information technology and communication skills plus interpersonal and professional development skills which can be used in many areas of your future professional career and social life.

 

Programme Content
Year 1 is designed to ensure you have a good knowledge of the basic sciences. There is also an introduction to the horticulture programme. 

Year 2 covers the applied sciences such as soil science and plant biology as well as modules in business and fundamentals of horticulture.

Years 3 and 4 cover the core modules including nursery/garden centre management, Fruit growing, vegetable crops, plant materials, sportsturf management, landscape management and design. There is also a major project and elective course to choose.

It is important that you study the programme syllabus before making your final choice.

 

 

Professional Work Experience (PWE)
This is an important element of your degree and gives you the opportunity to further develop your skills in a real life environment. Six months PWE is taken in your area of interest between the years 3 and 4 of your degree. There are opportunities to travel for your PWE or take a semester in another university through our exchange programme. 

 

Transfers from Institutes of Technology
The Programme normally accepts a number of transferees from Institutes of Technology who have completed relevant Ordinary Degree Programmes. Details are available from the Programme Office, contact details below.

 Further Information:

Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine Programme Office

Room G10 (ground floor),

UCD Agriculture and Food Science Centre

University College Dublin

Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland

Tel: +353 1 716 7194

Fax: +353 1 716 1118

Email: 

a
gandv
et@ucd.ie

Website: 

www.ucd.ie/agandvetwww.HortiTrends.com Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland

If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
 Latest News, Trends, Courses, Services, Products, Suppliers & Jobs for Horticulture & Fresh Produce - Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Nurseries, Landscape, Architecture,                                                                              Garden Centre, Florists, Arboriculture, Sports Turf, Green-keeping & Forestry Sectors.

'

19 Aug 2010

Glee 2010 Visitor Newsletter

Latest H

orticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland
 
Glee Visitor Newsletter


Glee 2010 is fast approaching and it is set to be bigger, bolder and brighter than in 2009. With over 650 fantastic brands showcasing their products there is no better place to be from the 20th to 22nd September 2010.

Glee is set to be a fantastic 3 days packed with BIG BRANDS,INNOVATION and RETAIL INSPIRATION. If you have not already done so, click here to save the dates in your diary.


Glee 2010 will deliver fantastic content to all visitors to the show. The Hothouse will return ready to inform, educate and inspire you. Key topics include;

Garden Centre of the Future


John Stanley
What will the industry look like in 2050 and how will we get there? This thought provoking presentation will stimulate ideas on the vision of the future, as well as providing practical steps we can introduce into our business tomorrow.


GYO Inspiration

Kevin Walters, Gardenworks
Recent research by Future Foundation in the UK showed that 36% of consumers (41% of family stage) are either already growing or are planning to grow their own vegetables.


This is a great opportunity. In this session, Kevin Waters from The Gardenworks will review some of the very best approaches to marketing grow your own from centres and suppliers across the country. Don't miss it!


Retail masterclass at GLEE 2010

On Wednesday September 22nd, at 10.00AM, there will be an exciting retail seminar based on the Colour your Life campaign.

Facilitator Phil Rogers of Incito Learning & Development has 30 years experience in training, development and operations with retail with giants Asda & Ikea. The session is guaranteed to be interactive and dynamic and will give you applied ideas to take back to your own businesses. It will be enriched by Phil's unique, motivational approach.

As part of the seminar, real-life gardening retailers will be sharing their experiences of using the materials and facilities on offer through Colour your Life.

The first fifty to register for the seminar at contact@colour-your-life.co.uk will receive a free voucher to use the brilliant on-line poster service - come and collect it on the day!


Are garden centres inspirational enough?

Matt Appelby, Horticultural Week
International garden centre consultant John Stanley says garden centres are losing out to farmers' markets as community hubs.


Stanley, who will be part of a Garden Retail panel looking at whether garden centres are inspirational enough, says garden centres are losing their "edge" as an experience creator.

He will join BBC Gardeners' World magazine editor Adam Pasco and HTA president Caroline Owen on this high profile panel to disscuss. Make sure you join the debate


Glee is crammed full of fantastic content, leading brands and inspirational products. Make sure you don't miss it!

We look forward to seeing you in September

The Glee team


If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
 Latest News, Trends, Courses, Services, Products, Suppliers & Jobs for Horticulture & Fresh Produce - Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Nurseries, Landscape, Architecture,                                                                              Garden Centre, Florists, Arboriculture, Sports Turf, Green-keeping & Forestry Sectors.

'

18 Aug 2010

GLDA events. Annual Seminar will be held on the 29th January 2011

GLDA events. Annual seminar will be held on the 29th January 2011 at The National Botanic Gardens Dublin. Among the speakers is Tom Stuart Smith. 

Stay tuned for further GLDA news and updates.

 

'

18 Aug 2010

HortiFair News 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland


space 0


ExpoSure:

ExpoSure is the digital newsletter from the Horti Fair for (potential) exhibitors.

0 Register new products quickly!
0

Proven profitability of participating in Horti Fair

0 High scores

Click here to unsubscribe

 

ihf2000

where horticulture meets

 


Register new products quickly!

If you are introducing new products and/or services at the Horti Fair 2010, you should register them quickly using the Exhibitors Manual. All new products registered in time compete for the prestigious Horti Fair Innovation Award (in partnership with Reed Business) and are eligible, therefore, for the prize of € 5,000 in the form of a media package!

The international jury of experts will announce the nominations at the beginning of September on the basis of the descriptions provided by the participants, which is why you should register quickly and no later than 20 August. Follow the tips in your Exhibitors Manual when describing your new products for a chance of winning the Innovation Award, which will be presented to the winner announced on the first day of the fair. The Innovation Award competition is separate from the trade press and new products preview: all products registered in time are eligible to take part.

lijntje

Proven profitability of participating in Horti Fair

Did you know that the Horti Fair is the only horticultural trade show whose profitability is proven? Our figures make it clear that participating in last year's Horti Fair produced an average of 15 new customers! And the profit on each euro of the costs of taking part was no less than € 6.19 in 2009!

lijntje

High scores

The Horti Fair has achieved high scores over the past six years. On average, 79% of participants were (very) satisfied with visitor quality, 66% were (very) satisfied with the visits to the stand and 78% (very) satisfied with the contact with the organizers. In addition, an evaluation of visits from 2006 to 2009 shows that no less than 92% of visitors found what they were looking for at the Horti Fair and 89% recommends the trade exhibition in Amsterdam to colleagues. The Horti Fair team is aiming to achieve an equally high score this year as well!

 

 

 

International Horti Fair © 2010 | Twitter | Flickr.com | YouTube | Contact


18 Aug 2010

Looking for Work Expierience in Horticulture - Waterford/Kilkenny Area

I am returning to college in September to study horticulture at Kildalton College, Co. Kilkenny. I have worked on orchards, vineyard and organic market gardens in Australia and New Zealand and decided to study horticulture when I returned home.  I am based on the Waterford/Kilkenny border and looking for weekend work experience that I can do throughout my course. Preferably I would like to work in a garden, nursery or garden centre.  

If your business can supply work experience for this person or others please contact jblair@hortitrends.com

'

18 Aug 2010

GLDA Show garden workshop with Mark Gregory and Orla Woods at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Saturday October 9th

GLDA Show garden workshop with Mark Gregory and Orla Woods at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Saturday October 9th


Event introduction 

“It’s Show Time”

The creation of a show garden is a right of passage for all garden designers. 

For some they represent the tentative first steps into the commercial reality of design, for others they’re a stage to play out a lifetime’s experience. To the public they’re a magnet; a catwalk for exterior design where future trends are set, perceptions are tested and where lifestyle aspirations are brought to life. The show garden is a corner stone in every designer’s life and career.

The creation of a show garden is no easy task, if it were, we all be making them. To realise a show garden will demand heavily of mind, body and soul, it will test patience, spirit and commitment to the limit, while draining finances and eating up time. For the dab hand they’re an immense challenge, for ill informed and inexperienced they often prove too much. 

If you’re a designer - aspiring, experienced or otherwise - looking to raise your profile, share your talents or come of age, then the upcoming GLDA workshop is a must attend event. It’s Show Time is a daylong event, taking place on Saturday 9th of October at the National Botanic Gardens, which will feature two luminaries of garden creation. Mark Gregory is a 12 time Chelsea gold Medal winner, he has built over 60 show gardens, is the recipient of numerous industry awards and is a judge for Bloom in the Park. Orla Woods needs no introduction, a multi award winning plantswoman, she has built a hugely successful career spanning the last two decades and encompassing international garden events, stage setting for film production and show garden displays. Perhaps most highly regarded for her plant-orientated skills, she is responsible for creating displays for many of Ireland’s top designers. 

Maximise the rewards and minimise the challenges of show garden creation with It’s Show Time, the GLDA’s autumn workshop. For further information or to book your seat, contact Annette McCoy on, phone: 01 2940092 Fax: 01 2948043, email: info@glda.ie or visit www.glda.ie

Admission. 
Full Members: €40
Friends: €55
Students: €35
Public: €70

'

17 Aug 2010

Plants chosen for 2011 RHS trials

Plants chosen for 2011 RHS trials

Delphinium trial at Wisley

The RHS has just announced its 2011 plant trials which will cover 14 new, and 21 current plant groups.

'We have been looking very carefully at the needs of our members and other gardening enthusiasts and have produced, we believe, an exciting and useful programme of trials,' says Kylie Balmain, RHS Head of Horticultural Trials & Relations.

'Each year we receive extensive support to deliver our trials programme especially from our plant committee and panel members. They spend a lot of time assessing and monitoring each trial to ensure the RHS can recommend plants of very high quality for the Award of General Merit (AGM).'

An AGM is a valuable award and key to helping people make informed plant selection. By choosing an AGM plant, gardeners can be sure that it meets exacting criteria including: ‘outstanding excellence for ordinary garden decoration; not requiring highly specialised growing conditions or care; not particularly susceptible to any pests or diseases'.

The majority of trials are conducted at RHS Garden Wisley with additional trials managed off-site with partner gardens and members of the trade.

Horticulture & Landscape News.

 

13 Aug 2010

Neutrog South Africa meets Ireland

South Africa meets Ireland

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - www.HortiTrends.com

On a recent holiday to Europe, Alwyn Badenhorst, who is a Customer Relationship Manager with Neutrog South Africa, took some time to visit the new factory of Neutrog Ireland, and meet Niall Reynolds, Managing Director. Alwyn has been working for Neutrog for the past 3 years, and worked for a Neutrog distributor before that. Niall was delighted to hear about how Neutrog has grown in South Africa, and was amazed to hear that over 20,000 tonnes were produced there last year.

Niall said “It’s great to speak to Alwyn about the progress in South Africa, and to learn how this was achieved. It’s very exciting to think that we could achieve similar results here over the next few years, and extremely valuable to learn from the experiences in both South Africa and Australia”.

Alwyn commented on the similarities of the landscapes in Ireland and in the region in South Africa where he lives. He also said “I am very impressed with the new factory that Niall has set up here in Ireland, and I am extremely confident that Neutrog Ireland will be just as successful as our business in South Africa”. 

Niall hopes to visit Neutrog South Africa in the near future.

 


'

11 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Teagasc Horticulture Development Unit Staff - www.HortiTrends.com

Teagasc Horticulture Development Unit Staff.

Name Address Core activity
Acting Head of Horticulture
Jim O'Mahony Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Management
Mushroom Team
Gerry Walsh Teagasc, Gorey, Co. Wexford Advisory
Tom Kellegher Teagasc, Monaghan Advisory
Helen Grogan Teagasc, Kinsealy, Dublin 17 Research
Fruit Team
Eamonn Kehoe Teagasc, Wexford Advisory / Research
Dermot Callaghan Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Advisory / Research
Nursery Stock Team
Jim Kelleher Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Advisory
Matthew Lohan
10 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - ScottsMiracle-Gro Announces Record Third Quarter Sales and Profit Along With Share Repurchase Plan and Dividend Increase - www.HortiTrends.com ((tag: horticulture, plants, fresh produce, Ireland, ScottsMira

ScottsMiracle-Gro Announces Record Third Quarter Sales and Profit Along With Share Repurchase Plan and Dividend Increase

MARYSVILLE, Ohio, Aug. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

  • Third quarter reported EPS from continuing operations of $2.59 vs. $2.28 a year earlier
  • Consumer purchases at major U.S. retailers up more than 5 percent year-to-date
  • 2-point gain in market share year-to-date
  • Company re-affirms full year adjusted EPS guidance of $3.25 to $3.35
  • Board authorizes $500 million share repurchase over four years
  • Quarterly dividend increased to $0.25 per share, double the current level

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG), the world's leading marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products, announced today that continued consumer interest in gardening activities as well as momentum from its regionalization efforts resulted in record third quarter results.  

In addition, the Company said its Board of Directors has authorized the Company to repurchase up to $500 million of SMG common shares over the next four years. The Board also voted to increase the quarterly dividend paid to shareholders to $0.25 per share, double the current level.

"Our business and cash flow are strong, our balance sheet is healthy and our low debt-to-EBITDA level gives us tremendous flexibility in managing our business," said Jim Hagedorn, chairman and chief executive officer. "We will continue to make wise investments that drive profitable long-term growth while also increasing the amount of cash we return to our shareholders. Our continued success demonstrates the power of our brands with consumers, the strength of our retail partnerships and the resiliency of our category.

"All of these factors are evident in the decision made by our Board to double our dividend and repurchase our shares, both of which demonstrate our confidence in the long-term outlook for our business."

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

Company-wide sales from continuing operations for the quarter ended July 3, 2010 were $1.24 billion, an increase of 1 percent from the same period a year ago. It is important to note that the timing of the Company's fiscal calendar resulted in a five-day shift forward of the third quarter as compared with fiscal 2009. When adjusted to reflect comparable reporting periods, company-wide sales in the third quarter were up 5 percent.

Adjusted income from continuing operations, which excludes the impact of product registration and recall costs, was $176.9 million, or $2.61 per share, compared with $155.0 million, or $2.34 per share, for the same period last year.  Reported income from continuing operations was $175.9 million, or $2.59 per share, compared with $150.7 million, or $2.28 per share, for the same period last year.

Global Consumer sales increased to $1.09 billion, up slightly from a year ago with foreign exchange having essentially no impact on sales. Adjusted for the calendar shift, Global Consumer sales increased 5 percent. Point-of-sale data from the Company's major retail partners in the U.S. showed that consumer purchases increased 5 percent in the quarter.

Adjusted operating income for the Global Consumer segment improved 10 percent in the quarter to $292.7 million from $265.2 million for the same period last year.

Scotts LawnService reported a 3 percent increase in sales to $81.3 million from $79.0 million. Adjusted operating income increased 6 percent to $22.8 million, compared with $21.6 million a year ago.

Global Professional sales increased by 3 percent in the quarter to $71.9 million from $69.5 million last year. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, sales increased 7 percent. Operating income for the segment increased to $6.9 million from $5.2 million for the same period last year.

Adjusted gross margin rate increased to 40.7 percent in the quarter, compared with 38.9 percent a year earlier. Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) decreased 4 percent in the quarter to $214.4 million from $223.0 million a year earlier.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) increased 15 percent to $304.4 million from $263.7 million a year ago.

'

10 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Market for Horticultural Products - www.HortiTrends.com

Farmleigh Plant Fair


Now in its third year, the ever popular Farmleigh Plant Fair takes place once again in the majestic grounds of Farmleigh Estate.

A wide variety of artisan growers from all over Ireland will have an extensive range of special and exotic plants on sale.

Special guest celebrity gardener Dermot O'Neill will be holding gardening advice clinics to answer and solve all of your gardening problems.

There will be a childrens garden for the up and coming gardeners, where they can plant flowers as well as an outdoor drawing centre where the children can draw all types of gardening plants.

A plant creche will be available where you can leave your plants while you enjoy the food markets and music of the St James Brass and Reed Band.

A family gardening day for you to enjoy and admission is free!

Open from 10am to 5pm

'

6 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Garden Centre News Ireland - Horticulturist - Plants (Kilkenny) - www. HortiTrends.com

Title: horticulturist - Plants (Kilkenny)
Description:
Supporting the Garden Centre Manager, this senior position involves the purchasing and care of the plant selection for a busy Garden Centre. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable and passionate about plants and will provide advice to customers and colleagues while generating sales in a retail environment.
Geographical Information
Country: Ireland Region:
Salary / Contract
Minimum salary: 23,000pa
Maximum salary: 27,000pa
Salary currency: EURO
Hours per week: 36.5-40
Contract type: PF - Full-Time
Extras
Requirements
Experience required: Required
Employer
Name: Gardenia
Information: recruitment@okeeffesgroup.com
Address: Head Office Unit 12, Kilkenny Retail and Business Park, Smithlands, IE
Phone: 056 7722034
Fax: 056 7722466
Email: recruitment@okeeffesgroup.com
How to apply
How to apply: Please forward a current C.V. and cover letter to rachel@okeeffesgroup.com, or Rachel Norton, Unit 12, Kilkenny Retail and Business Park, Kilkenny
Last date for application: 14/08/2010

 

5 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - 9th Scientific Statement. Recent Irish weather extremes and climate change from RIA - www.HortiTrends.com

9th Scientific Statement. Recent Irish weather extremes and climate change from RIA

In November 2009 Ireland experienced
unusually wet weather that
caused widespread flooding. It was
followed by a cold spell from mid-December
that culminated in exceptionally
wintry conditions in the early days of
2010. Both events have led to speculation
that this is a manifestation of manmade
climate change, a foretaste of
what is to come. Is there any substance
to this view or are the events explainable
in terms of natural, as opposed to anthropogenic
(human-induced), variability
of the Irish climate?
Climate models suggest that extreme
rainfall events, such as occurred in late
2009, are likely to become more frequent
in the future, with additional
changes in the average rainfall. These
changes will be projected on the natural
variability of the climate system, a fundamental
feature that can produce large
departures from the average. It is not
possible to attribute any specific weather
events to either of these components.
The November 2009 rainfall was likely
to be part of natural variability, supplemented
with a small expected increase
in rainfall due to anthropogenic climate
change.
Similarly, the 2009/2010 winter cold
spell was consistent with the natural climate
variability displayed in the climate
records.
Read more.....

'

5 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Glee 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com

Glee Innovators Zone

After a hugely successful launch in 2009 the Innovators Zone is back bigger and bold for Glee 2010.

Innovators Zone

With 32 companies (22 in 2009) the Innovators Zone is designed to provide an at-a-glance chance to source innovative products from entrepreneurs and small-scale manufacturers who are taking their first steps into the market, or making their debut at Glee.

To get a head start on seeing the next big thing make sure you visit the Innovators Zone in Hall 5


Spotlight on the Innovation…

100's of companies will be launching products and showing you what's new for 2011, including...

Boskke - Turning gardening on its head

Defying gravity, Boskke's unique upside-down planter encourages abundant greenery at home and at work, without sacrificing floor space.


The sky planter's innovative design allows you to save space, conserve water and transform your view of nature. Make sure you see it first at Glee 2010Click here for more information.


Blooming High enter the Dragons' Den!

Blooming High, who exhibited at Glee for the first time in 2009, bravely stepped into the Dragons' Den this week to pitch their revolutionary stackable planter. They received some great feedback and advice from the Dragons and interest in their product has already soared since they appeared on the show! 

The Blooming High container can be used individually or stacked to create a tower affect. Watering is no problem for the lower sections as they come with a watering tube to enable watering and feeding of those that are stacked. 
Click here for more information.


Don't miss them at Glee 2010… visit Stand A11 in Hall 5 to see their product first hand!

For the full exhibitor list visit www.gleebirmingham.com

'

5 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009

National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009 

The National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009 is now available as a download from the Centre's website. This report highlights the main achievements of the Centre in 2009 and provides information on many of the projects undertaken during that time.

 
The National Biodiversity Data Centre would like to draw your attention to the online mapping system, Biodiversity Maps, which the Centre has developed.

Since its establishment, the Data Centre has been working on putting in place the biodiversity information infrastructure needed to bring Ireland’s biodiversity data management firmly into the 21st Century. Part of this infrastructure involved the development of a state of the art web-based mapping system, Biodiversity Maps, through which data from different sources are brought together and made freely available to recorders, researchers and decision-makers. Most of the Centre’s key partners, including state and non-governmental agencies, have already provided databases to populate the system, with the result that 1.25 million records from 8,885 species are now stored securely and made available as a resource for data users.

This resource is available to use at http://www.biodiversityireland.ie andhttp://maps.biodiversityireland.ie.

The National Biodiversity Data Centre welcomes any feedback on the Annual Report 2009 and the work that the Centre is involved in.

'

2 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE SECTOR - www.HortiTrends.com

SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE 

DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL 

HORTICULTURE SECTOR 

Funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

Terms and Conditions 

 3rd  Round   (2010) 


General 


This scheme is intended to assist in the development of the horticulture sector, 

including beekeeping, by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant 

and equipment in commercial horticulture.  The scheme aims to promote the 

diversification of on-farm activities; improve the quality of products; facilitate 

environmentally friendly practices and improve working conditions. 


Under this scheme and subject to conditions 1-31 beneath, aid at a rate of 40% 

(at a maximum rate of 50% in the case of young farmers) will be payable on the 

accepted cost (excl VAT, discounts and allowances) of capital investments 

approved and completed to the satisfaction of the Minister for Agriculture, 

Fisheries and Food. 


The scheme is primarily aimed at those in rural areas engaging in horticultural 

production and/or beekeeping. Non-production investments, which are directly 

associated with primary production, may also be considered. 


As the funds available under the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development 

of the Commercial Horticulture Sector are limited, investments will be in 

competition for grant-aid. The funding is for investments completed not later 

than 15th October 2010, unless otherwise agreed.  Payment claims will be 

accepted prior to this date.                                  

Application forms may be obtained from Seamus O’Donnell/Bernadette Doran 

at- 

 Crop Production and Safety Division, 

 Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, 

Administrative Building, 

Backweston Campus, 

Young’s Cross, 

Celbridge, 

Co. Kildare. 

Ph…01 5058801 / 5058797 

 E-Mail     Seamus.odonnell@agriculture.gov.ie 

 E-Mail    Bernadette.doran@agriculture.gov.ie                                          

  

Definitions 


For the purpose of this scheme:- 

“the Minister” shall mean the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. 

“the Department” shall mean the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 

Food. 

“ horticulture” means that branch of agriculture that relates to the cultivation of 

plants used for food or for the production of food or ornament, including the 

technical procedures necessary for the cultivation, production and preparation for 

market of -    

                                             (a) fruit,  

(b) vegetables, (excluding potatoes and seed 

potatoes), 

(c) herbs,  

(d) edible fungi, 

(e) nuts,  

(f) cut flowers 

(g) decorative foliage  

(h) hops 

(i) sports turf, 

(k) honey, 

(l) pot plants, bedding plants and herbaceous plants  

(m) nursery stock and Christmas trees), 

(n) fruit trees, fruit bushes and fruit plants.

  

“investment” means an investment in a commercial horticultural enterprise. 


CONDITIONS FOR GRANT AID UNDER THE SCHEME OF INVESTMENT 

AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE 

SECTOR 

SPECIFIC CONDITIONS 

1.     Applications 

• Applications should be made on an official application form. Sections 

1–11 of the application form should be completed by the applicant who 

should then arrange to have Section 12 completed by Teagasc or an 

approved Adviser. 

•  The required supporting documentation e.g. business plan, latest set of 

accounts and up-to-date and fully descriptive quotations showing net 

cost should accompany the application which must be returned to the 

address as listed on page 2 not later than Friday 19th  February 2010                                       

All quotations submitted must be original and fully descriptive. They 

should be in printed format and on company headed paper. 

• Only fully completed applications with all supporting documentation 

will be accepted by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 

Food.  Incomplete applications will not be considered for grant aid. 

• Applications may be submitted by individual applicants or on behalf of 

groups and other legal entities. In cases of joint or group enterprises, one 

person should be nominated to apply on behalf of the enterprise.  In such 

cases at least one member of the enterprise must meet the eligibility 

requirements.   

•  Applicants must demonstrate that they have the necessary skill and    

competence for the running of the business.  In the case of group or joint 

enterprises, at least one member of the enterprise will be required to 

demonstrate that they have the necessary skill and competence. 


 2.         Eligible investments 

The scheme will be confined to new investments only. 

Applicants must declare where any relationship exists between the applicant 

and the quoting company / supplier.  The nature of this relationship must be 

declared fully on both application and claim for payment forms. 


3. Commencement of Work 

Work on a project must not commence until after the issue of letter of 

approval by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food following 

the receipt of the fully completed application, otherwise the application will be 

rendered ineligible for consideration. 

Items invoiced or delivered, purchased or payments made before issue of 

approval letter by the Department, are not eligible for grant aid. Where work 

commenced before the approval date, grant aid will not be paid. 

The following preparatory measures will not be deemed to constitute 

commencement of work and may be undertaken whenever appropriate: 

Administrative procedures aimed at obtaining planning permission, planning 

work specifically carried out by for instance, an architect, preparatory studies, 

site clearance and fencing. 

   

4.  Viability 

The horticultural enterprise must be shown to be viable on a commercial scale. 

To enable viability to be assessed, investment proposals must be supported by a 

satisfactory business plan covering a minimum of two years and the most recent 

set of accounts. Applications must contain a comprehensive profile of the 

current and proposed enterprises, outlets, employment etc. Each project will be 

assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the business plan, the 

latest set of accounts and the project profile submitted with the application.  


5. Resale of approved equipment 

Applicants will be required to keep in their ownership /possession, for a period 

of 5 years, such items in respect of which grant aid has been paid.  

These items must be used for horticultural purposes only. 

All items grant aided must be held within the State. 



6.       Financing of approved items 

Leasing agreements will be limited to a period of 4 years and hire purchase 

agreements will not be allowed. 


  7.       Proofs of Payment of relevant invoices   

It will be a requirement for all applicants to submit proofs of payment that are 

acceptable to the Minister. These proofs will consist of original bank 

statements and copies of encashed cheques. Alternatively, on line bank 

statements (only high quality colour printouts with bank logo) with copies of 

encashed cheques will be acceptable or if payment is made by direct credit 

transfer an original bank statement or on-line bank statement listing payments to 

the supplier must be submitted. 

Amounts listed on bank statements must be clearly linked to the relevant 

item on which grant aid is claimed. 

   

  8. Scale of Investments 

The minimum investment which will be considered for grant aid is €10,000,   

except in the case of beekeeping for which a minimum investment of €2,000  

will apply. The upper cumulative limit for investments per applicant over the 

period of the scheme 2007-2013 is €5m. Aid for each investment will be 

decided on the availability of funds and on the ongoing priorities for each sector 

within the industry as well as the quality and scale of the proposals. In some 

cases  only part of an investment may be approved for aid. 


   9. Rate of Grant 

Aid will be payable at the maximum rate of 40% (at a maximum rate of 50% in 

the case of young farmers) on the accepted net cost of investments approved 

and completed to the satisfaction of the Minister. The amount on which the 

grant is calculated will, however, not exceed the actual net expenditure 

incurred, (excl. VAT, discounts and allowances), and paid for by the applicant.   

To qualify for the higher rate of grant aid on the basis of being a young farmer, 

the applicant will have to be under 35 years of age on the date of receipt of a 

valid application by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  

Such applicant’s must submit an original birth certificate with their 

application.   

To qualify for payment of grant aid at the 50% rate an applicant will have 

to be in a position to demonstrate, by the date of application for payment of 

aid, that they are in control of financial management of the grant aided 

enterprise. 


 7 

In the case of applications made by people operating in partnership or 

where more than one person has joint interest in the business the higher 

rate of aid will only be payable where all parties are under 35 years on the 

date of receipt of valid application. 

A company or corporate body will not qualify for the higher rate. 


10.  Limitations 

• Only new materials and/or new specialised horticultural plant/equipment 

will be grant aided. Aid will not be paid for secondhand equipment, 

materials or replacements, except in very exceptional circumstances to 

be determined by the Minister. 

• Aid will not be paid for repair and maintenance. 

• No aid will be paid for projects which commence before issue of letter 

of approval  by the Department.   

• In the case of investments for buildings, the applicant must show details 

of ownership of the site or it’s long-term lease (5 years from 1st January 

2010) 

• Projects which aim to increase production for which no sales outlets can 

be found will not be grant aided. 


11.        Aid from Other Sources 

  If any contribution towards the cost of approved works has been or may be 

made from public funds, otherwise than under this scheme, the amount of aid 

under the scheme may, where the Minister so determines, be reduced 

accordingly. 

          Investment in mushroom enterprises which are eligible for consideration 

for aid under the EU Producers Organisation Scheme will not be grant 

aided under this Scheme 


             An applicant must notify the Department if Business Expansion Scheme    

           or Seed Capital  Scheme investments have been raised and also declare the  

           amount raised.  Where funds have been raised grant aid will be reduced   

           by 20% in the case of applicants in assisted  areas and by 50% in non  

           assisted regions. 


12 Competitiveness of Applications  

Projects will be assessed for aid on a priority basis and the fact that a project is  

aided does not create entitlement for similar projects in this or any future round 

of the scheme. Priorities may change with time or circumstances. 


13. Completion of Investments/ Deadline for submission of claim for payment 

Approved investments must be completed and a claim for grant aid made within 

the period stipulated by the Minister. 

Fully completed claims for payment should be submitted as soon as 

possible but must be received in the Department not later than  

15th October 2010 unless otherwise agreed. Claims for payment 

will be accepted prior to this date.  


14. Legal Provisions, Consents, etc. 

All applicants must undertake to comply with all National and EU Community 

standards in respect of the investments approved under the scheme. 

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all works shall be carried out in 

accordance with the provisions of all relevant statutes, regulations, byelaws and 

duty of care.  

The onus of obtaining all consents, permissions, etc. including planning 

permission, consent to entry on, or interference with, land, other property or 

right of any other persons, rests on the applicant. 

It will be a requirement for an applicant, where as a producer in the food chain, 

to register with this Department under EU Regulations, ie Regulation (EC) No 

852/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the hygiene of 

foodstuffs.  

Payment of grant aid is subject to compliance with statutory requirements in 

relation to the pay and working conditions of employees. 

Payment of grant aid by the Minister should not be taken as evidence of 

compliance with the above legal provisions, consents, etc.  


 15. Contractors Tax Clearance Requirements 

 In conformity with general practice the payment of financial aid as provided for 

in this scheme is subject to the condition that, where a contractor is employed to 

carry out construction work, that contractor must have a current C2 certificate 

or tax clearance certificate from the Revenue Commissioners. 

 In the case of a non-resident contractor a general tax clearance certificate will 

be required. This provision applies whether or not the non-resident contractor 

has a registered office in this country. 


16. Payment of Tax by Applicant 

In the case of grant awards in excess of €10,000 the applicant must submit a 

current Tax Clearance Certificate. This certificate should be submitted as 

soon as possible but not later than the date of application for payment of 

grant aid. 


General Conditions 


17. Unsuccessful Projects 

Where eligible projects have not been approved for grant aid and have not  

commenced, applicants may re-apply for consideration in the next round of    

applications under the scheme subject to terms and conditions of the scheme at   

that time. 


18.    Information 

 Applicants must provide any information required by the Minister for the  

 administration, control, monitoring and evaluation of the scheme. 


19. Justification for Granting Aid 

Aid for investment will at all times be subject to the condition that, in the 

opinion of the Minister the investment is justified. However, the approval for, or 

payment of aid, does not imply any endorsement by the Minister of a project’s 

safety, technical feasibility and/or economic viability. 


 20. Right of Entry 

The Minister reserves the right to arrange for an inspection at all reasonable 

times of any land, premises, plant, equipment and records of participants or 

applicants for participation in this scheme. 

The applicant or a person nominated by the applicant must make himself or 

herself available to the Department Inspector in order to carry out the necessary 

inspections.  


21.    Responsibility of Applicant 

The approval or payment of aid under the scheme does not imply the acceptance 

by the Minister of any responsibility as regards the stability of any structure, or 

the soundness of any materials used or adequacy for its purposes of any 

investment, which is the subject of such approval or payment. This is the 

applicant’s responsibility in the first instance and the onus is on him/her to 

comply with current requirements as regards Health and Safety. 

The Minister may require certification of quality of work and design. 


22.    Protection of the Environment 

To ensure protection of the environment, applicants: 

• Must agree to farm in accordance with the criteria for Good Agricultural and 

Environmental Condition (GAEC).  They must also participate in the 

appropriate Bord Bia Quality Programmes or recognised equivalent, 

including the environment and hygiene standards set out therein. 

• May be required to make investments or to carry out additional requirements 

over and above that covered in their initial applications e.g. investment in 

hygiene or pollution control.  Such additional works will not be grant aided. 

• May, without prejudice to paras. 17 & 19 be refused grant aid where the 

Minister is of the opinion that the works proposed to be carried out would 

cause damage to the environment – in particular to environmentally sensitive 

areas or to a structure or area of historical or archaeological importance. 

  

 23. False Statements 

Without prejudice to penalties applicable under national law, if, for the purposes 

of obtaining aid under this scheme, a person knowingly makes a false statement 

or withholds essential information, all or such portion of the aid given or to be 

given as the Minister may determine shall be reimbursed or withheld. The 

Minister reserves the right to exclude such a person from further participation in 

the scheme for such a period as she/he shall determine. 

  

 24. Withdrawal of Aid 

 The Minister may withdraw approval of aid if the applicant fails to abide by the 

conditions of the scheme. In such event all or such portion of aid given or to be 

given shall be reimbursed or withheld as the Minister may determine. 


25. Recovery of Aid 

The Minister reserves the right to recover any grant aid paid where the 

investment aided does not continue to be used for horticultural purposes for a 

period of at least 5 years,  



26. Review of Financial Aids 

The Minister reserves the right to vary, where occasion so demands, the amount 

of financial aid specified in the scheme subject at all times to the provision of 

any relevant European Union legislation. 


27. Procedures 

 The Minister shall lay down the procedures to be followed in the operation of  

 this scheme and reserves the right to alter these procedures from time to time. 


28. Conditions of Approval 

 Every approval of development works and purchases under this scheme shall be 

subject to all conditions laid down by the Minister being complied with in full 

by the applicant. 

  

29. Charges for Visits and Services 

 The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food reserves the right to impose 

a charge for visits made, and services provided, by its officials in connection 

with the scheme.   


30. Decision of the Minister 

 The decision of the Minister on any matter relating to this scheme or to any  

 works there under shall be final. 


31. Additional Conditions 

 The Minister may at any time lay down additional conditions for the           

implementation of this scheme. 


'

2 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Horticulture Schemes in Ireland - www.HortiTrends.com ((horticulture, fresh produce, schemes, development, Ireland))

Horticulture Schemes

Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector: 

The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector grant, aids capital investments in specialised plant and equipment in the horticulture sector. The scheme's objectives are to: promote the diversification of on-farm activities; improve the quality of products; facilitate environmentally friendly practices and improve working conditions.

Further details may be obtained by phoning: 01-5058797 or 01-5058801.

Terms and Conditions of the Scheme of Aid for Producer Organisations in the Fruit and Vegetables Sector:

Incredible Edibles

Click on the link above for information on the Incredible Edibles School Scheme

National Apiculture Programme 2007-2010 (pdf 12Kb)

'

2 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - New PlantforLife Guide promoting bee friendly plants - www.HortiTrends.com ((horticulture, fresh produce, Ireland))

New PlantforLife Guide promoting bee friendly plants

PlantforLife, in association with The British Beekeepers Association, have produced a downloadable guide to planting to attract bees in your garden.

Bee imageBees are in decline in the UK and are struggling for survival. Honey bees have suffered heavy over-winter colony losses due to disease and of the UK’s 27 species of bumble bee, three are now extinct.

Bee image

 

As British gardens are the largest nature reserve in the UK, PlantforLife, has produced the bee friendly guide. Accredited by The British Beekeepers’ Association, the factsheet provides a list of plants – together with tips on how and when to plant and care for them – that will encourage bees back into the garden. The plants featured in the guide include: buddleja, cornflowers, corn poppies, flowering currants, foxgloves, heathers, honeysuckle, lamb’s ear, lavender, sea holly, sedum and sunflowers.

 

Available to download at www.plantforlife.info/bees garden retailers are encouraged to print them out and display next to bee-friendly plants such as lavender, corn poppies and sedum.

 

Tim Lovett, Director of Public Affairs at the British Beekeepers Association said: “The British Beekeepers Association was delighted to be able to assist the HTA in the preparation of their PlantforLife Bee Friendly campaign materials. The HTA is keen to encourage gardeners to help bees which are struggling against a number of problems and the advice the HTA has made available will make its own important contribution in the fight to help our bees.”

 

5 reasons why we should encourage bees into our gardens:

Bees add charm and character to our gardens, bringing them to life

Creating a garden for wildlife can be a project the whole family can become involved in from toddlers to Mums and Dads!

Encouraging bees also attracts hoverflies and other beneficial insects into the garden, helping to control pests and protect garden plants

A third of all the food we eat is on our table thanks to bees pollinating our crops; so looking after bees is actually the same as looking after ourselves

Bees can help make your garden more productive, especially if you grow vegetables or have fruit trees that need to be pollinated.

 

For further information please visit:

www.plantforlife.info/bees

www.britishbee.org.uk

www.adoptabeehive.co.uk


'

1 Aug 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Smith to head Food Harvest 2020 Implementation Group - www.HortiTrends.com

Smith to head Food Harvest 2020 Implementation Group

Speaking at the official opening of the Virginia Agricultural Show in County Cavan on Saturday 31 July, Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food again re-enforced the importance of the Food Harvest 2020report as the key to growing the value of the agri-food, fisheries and forestry sector by a third over the coming decade and increasing exports to €12 billion.

Underlying the priority with which the Government considers the report, the Minister said that he would be personally heading the implementation group to ensure that the ambitious targets in Food Harvest 2020 can be met in the shortest possible time. "I want to emphasise my personal commitment and that of the Government to the achievement of these ambitious but realisable growth targets" the Minister said.  "For the dairy sector which is so central to the Virginia Show, this plan targets a 50% increase in output.  This would enhance the value of primary output by €700 million, as well as downstream benefits in the form of increased dairy products values, export earnings and employment" the Minister added.

The Minister also complimented the high standard of Holstein/Friesian cows in the Baileys Champion cow competition, now in its 27th year. "The continued loyal sponsorship of both Baileys and Glanbia Ingredients, Virginia, has elevated this competition to one highly regarded by breeders around the country.  It is one of Ireland's most prestigious dairy livestock events" he said, "and the kind of quality that is being rewarded here today represents the brightest future of an industry that has enormous potential for expansion and development".

The Minister also drew attention to the very positive brand image that Irish dairy products have worldwide, and the tremendous potential to capitalise on that image, particularly in Asian markets where economic expansion and increasing levels of disposable income were leading to increased demand for dairy and other food products.

"Irish food and beverage exports to Asian Markets were valued at €279 million in 2009," he said, "and there is tremendous potential for developing and expanding those markets, with consequent benefits for employment in Ireland.  In that context, it is essential that Irish food business operators take a strategic approach to developing Asian markets. They can be assured that in doing so, they will have the full support of my Department and its agencies, which will continue to be pro-active in building the kind of relationships that are critical to doing business in those countries. The road map of development as set out in Food Harvest 2020 will be a crucial factor in this process".    

Complimenting the decision of the organisers of the show to move it to a Saturday this year, Minister Smith noted that the show attracts exhibitors from every county in Ireland and from further a-field to compete in over 450 classes on the day.  This show not only boasts some of Irelands finest livestock, but also has a wide selection of competitions for garden produce, home cooking, arts and crafts which attract a high standard of entry from competitors both young and old.

Minister Smith welcomed the generous local sponsorship provided by a host of loyal sponsors. The Minister also said "Virginia show has grown to become one of the largest shows in the country. This is due to the hard work of the local organising committee under the President Ned Duffy. The organisers have shown great initiative and enterprise again this year in the quality of the programme for the day".

In conclusion, Minister Smith took the opportunity of wishing the organizing committee, the exhibitors, the sponsors, the many visitors, and indeed everybody involved with the Virginia show an enjoyable day out.

'

30 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Tree Company 'Branches Out' - www.HortiTrends.com

Tree Company 'Branches Out'

Tree Company Branches OutA Co Antrim company has developed a unique portable sawmill that should generate significant export sales over the next few years. 

M. Large Tree Services, which employs 24 people in Newtownabbey and this year celebrates its 40th anniversary, took its first step into design and manufacture with research and development (R&D) support from Invest NI.

The company, which specialises in forestry, landscaping and woodcutting services and machinery, saw a gap in the market for the product. With assistance from Invest NI's Innovation Voucher scheme it was able to access specialist expertise from Queen's University to help it carry out a technical review of the design, testing and certifying requirements for the sawmill. It then developed a prototype with R&D support from Invest NI.

Carol Keery, Invest NI's Director of Innovation, Research and Technology, said: "M Large has recognised that by developing its own range of innovative products it can not only open up new revenue streams but also protect itself from over reliance on other manufacturers. This product has substantial export potential and this will help to future-proof the company's viability." 

The portable sawmill has a number of innovative features. It is easy to transport and assemble, comes in two sizes and incorporates a sawdust collection system. 

Managing Director, Michael Large, said: "This is an exciting development for the company and hopefully is the first of many R&D successes for us.

"The support from Invest NI was vital in enabling us to access expertise and support for prototype development and CE certification. We are confident that the sawmill will quickly establish itself in the UK and European markets and become a significant source of income for us."

30 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Movers & Shakers | August 2010 from Fruitnet -www.HortiTrends.com

Movers & Shakers | August 2010

Full round-up of all the latest major appointments and departures within the European fresh produce industry over the past month

Coop Trading's Svend Aage Kristensen, familiar to many in the trade as one of its most skilled and popular buyers, will retire at the end of August after a distinguished career spanning almost five decades, during which time he worked mostly as a fresh produce buyer for the Nordic consumer cooperatives.

Spanish interprofessional citrus body Intercitrus has electedJuan Vicente Safont as its new president at the group’s annual assembly in Valencia. Mr Safont, who is also president of leading Spanish fresh produce group Anecoop, replacesJorge García of Castellon-based exporter García Ballester.

Seald Sweet International’s chief financial officer Vitor Figueiredo will take over as managing director of Univeg’s Portuguese operations later this year, the group has said.

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has announced thatAdrian Barlow was elected to the position of vice-president of the FPC Council at the group’s recent annual general meeting. FPC president Jim Rogers has been re-elected for a further year.

Dutch marketing group Fruit Vegetables Agency Holland has appointed Fred van Heyningen, CEO of Rabobank Westland, to its board. He will be responsible for strategic development and improving professionalism in the Dutch produce sector.

Paolo Bruni, president of EU farming cooperatives association Copa, Italian marketing group CSO and Italian fresh produce group Apo Conerpo, has been accepted as a member of the Brotherhood of the Magnificent Onion.

The Oppenheimer Group has appointed long-standing company member Nolan Quinn to lead its berry category in the new role of berry category director.

'
30 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Wikipedia's Version of Horticulture. Do you agree? If not then edit - www.HortiTrends.com ((horticulture, Ireland, fresh produce, trends, www.hortitrends.com))

Horticulture

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hybrid tomatoes growth by hydroponic methods on straw bales.

Horticulture is the industry and science of plant cultivation including the process of preparing soil for the planting of seeds, tubers, or cuttings.[

1] Horticulturists work and conduct research in the disciplines of plant propagation and cultivationcrop productionplant breeding and genetic engineering, plant biochemistry, and plant physiology. The work basically involvesfruitsberriesnutsvegetablesflowerstreesshrubs, and turf. Horticulturists work to improve crop yield, quality, nutritionalvalue, and resistance to insectsdiseases, and environmental stresses. Horticulture usually refers to gardening on a smaller scale, while agriculture refers to the large-scale cultivation of crops.[2] The word is composite, from two words, horti, meaning grass, originating in the Greek χορτον, meaning the same (grass) and the word "culture".

Contents

 [hide]

[edit]The study of horticulture

Horticulture involves Eight areas of study, which can be grouped into two broad sections - ornamentals and edibles:

  • Arboriculture is the study of, and the selection, planting, care, and removal of, individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants.
  • Floriculture includes the production and marketing of floral crops.
  • Landscape horticulture includes the production, marketing and maintenance of landscape plants.
  • Olericulture includes the production and marketing of vegetables.
  • Pomology includes the production and marketing of fruits.
  • Viticulture includes the production and marketing of grapes.
  • Oenology includes all aspects of wine and winemaking.
  • Postharvest physiology involves maintaining the quality of and preventing the spoilage of horticultural crops.

Horticulturists can work in industry, government or educational institutions or private collections. They can be cropping systems engineers, wholesale or retail business managers, propagators and tissue culture specialists (fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and turf), crop inspectors, crop production advisers, extension specialists, plant breeders, research scientists, and of course, teachers.

Disciplines which complement horticulture include biologybotanyentomologychemistrymathematicsgeneticsphysiologystatisticscomputer science, and communicationsgarden designplanting designPlant science and horticulture courses include: plant materials, plant propagation, tissue culture, crop production, post-harvest handlingplant breedingpollination management, crop nutrition, entomologyplant pathology, economics, and business. Some careers in horticultural science require a masters (MS) or doctoral (PhD) degree.

Horticulture is practiced in many gardens, "plant growth centres" and nurseries. Activities in nurseries range from preparing seeds and cuttings to growing fully mature plants. These are often sold or transferred to ornamental gardens or market gardens.

[edit]Horticulture and anthropology

Horticulture has a very long history. The study and science of horticulture dates all the way back to the times of Alexander the Great, and has been going on ever since, with present day horticulturists such as Freeman S. Howlett, the revolutionary horticulturist. [3] The origins of horticulture lie in the transition of human communities from nomadic hunter-gatherers to sedentary or semi-sedentary horticultural communities, cultivating a variety of crops on a small scale around their dwellings or in specialized plots visited occasionally during migrations from one area to the next (such as the "milpa" or maize field of Mesoamerican cultures).[4] In forest areas such horticulture is often carried out in swiddens ("slash and burn" areas).[5] A characteristic of horticultural communities is that useful trees are often to be found planted around communities or specially retained from the natural ecosystem.

Horticulture primarily differs from agriculture in two ways, firstly it generally encompasses a smaller scale of cultivation, using small plots of mixed crops rather than large fields of single crops. Secondly horticultural cultivations generally include a wide variety of crops, even including fruit trees with ground crops. Agricultural cultivations however as a rule focus on one primary crop. In pre-contact North America the semi-sedentary horticultural communities of the Eastern Woodlands (growing maize, squash and sunflower) contrasted markedly with the mobile hunter-gatherer communities of the Plains people. In Central America, Maya horticulture involved augmentation of the forest with useful trees such as papayaavocadocacao,ceiba and sapodilla. In the cornfields, multiple crops were grown such as beans (using cornstalks as supports), squash, pumpkins and chilli peppers, in some cultures tended mainly or exclusively by women.[6]

28 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - HortiFair 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com ((horticulture, Ireland, trade show, plants, holland))

Ewald van Vliet is new chairman of Horti Fair

Ewald van Vliet, the mayor of the horticultural municipality of
Lansingerland, is Marius Varekamp's successor as chairman of the
International Horti Fair.

Another five new board members took office at the same time as Van
Vliet and three board members are continuing their activities. Harm
Maters (chairman Avag), Cees Visser (managing director Visser
International Trade & Engineering) and Igo Janssen (managing director
Horticoop) have been appointed from the trade associations Avag,
Federatie Agrotechniek and VPN respectively, and the representative of
Plantum NL will be announced in September. Also from the sector are
Frank Hendriks (cultivation, managing director Hendriks-Agro), Sander
Kroll (trade, director Ki Plants) and Dick Oosthoek (services,
Rabobank Nederland), who was already member, while Bert Koeze (Royal
Van Zanten) and Jacques Teelen (former director FloraHolland) will
also remain independent members of the board for the time being, in
order to preserve the required continuity.
"The new board meets the requirement to put together a combination of
entrepreneurship and administrative/organizational experience and
strengthens the bond with horticulture,’’ says Wim van der Loo, the
managing director of the Horti Fair.

'Horti Fair is international springboard'

"As far as we are concerned, the Horti Fair is our springboard to
international horticulture,’’ says Rob Sandberg, Managing Director of
De Gier Drive Systems in Wateringen.

The company has decided to take part in this year's Technical Trials
at the Horti Fair (stand 04.0417), in which a number of suppliers
specializing in horticultural technique are organizing their own
'Central Station'. Sandberg explains. "This will be our base for
organizing field trips to the participants and to concrete projects in
practice, so that visitors can see the technical progress with their
own eyes and evaluate the possibilities. Their visit to the Horti Fair
gains extra added value as a result and together we are increasing the
appeal of the exhibition."

De Gier has an international reputation as a supplier of systems for
the control of screens, ventilation and climate control and regularly
introduces new products. "We can often achieve considerable savings on
costs for growers with clever applications of new and/or existing
techniques and the Technical Trials 2010 will allow visitors to the
Horti Fair to experience that," Sandberg confirms.

'Surprisingly many new visitors for Horti Fair

The independent survey commissioned annually by the Horti Fair shows
that around 35% of visitors every year are coming to the Horti Fair
for the first time, which is much higher than many exhibitors expect.

The high proportion of new visitors means there is a good chance of
participants making new contacts and also a good chance of transacting
concrete business as a result. At the same time, 65% of all trade
visitors come for new products and services, 49% to enrich their
overview, and 44% to make new contacts and/or deepen existing contacts
with suppliers and fellow horticultural professionals. All of this
makes the Horti Fair a trade exhibition of excellent quality: click
here for the complete visitor, participant and exhibition profiles for
the Horti Fair.

Use the Internet to increase your participation

The Internet offers you many opportunities to increase the exposure
you have as a participant at the Horti Fair. Use the digital
exhibitors manual and the products and services you are exhibiting at
the trade show in Amsterdam can be registered as quickly as possible,
allowing many (potential) customers to find your company!

Your new products will appear on the internet almost immediately after
you have registered them via that same exhibitors manual. It is also
really easy to add illustrations/pictures as well as clear
descriptions, focusing on the added value of what your innovations
offer your prospects and customers. You can reinforce your
participation in the exhibition at no extra cost thanks to
www.hortifair.com - and these are only two of the options the website
offers you. Full details are contained in the exhibitors manual.

"All market players come to the Horti Fair"

"We meet all our market players at the Horti Fair. And it is also a
trade show that focuses major attention on new products and
services,’’ are the most important reasons given by managing director
Leo Jasper for taking part in the Horti Fair 2010 with the
Penn-Textile Solutions/Contechma combination (stand 04.0122), which is
one of the new participants in the Horti Fair.

Jasper is familiar with the fair as a visitor. "Penn-Textile
Solutions/Contechma will be presenting itself at the Horti Fair as a
service provider with solutions for light and climate management and
we are introducing the revolutionary new Ombra-DLS screen. The new
application of control techniques enables this system to screen with
infinite variability between 20% and 65% shadow. This offers many
benefits to growers that we are looking forward to revealing at the
Horti Fair,’’ announces Jasper.

22 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Horticulture Ireland in the 2020 Food Harvest - www.HortiTrends.com

4.4 Horticulture

The horticulture and potato sector contributed approximately €370 million to farm output in 2009. The sector makes an important economic contribution and generates significant ancillary employment in areas such as preparing, packing produce, distribution, retail, garden design & landscaping.

The domestic retail and food service markets are the most important markets for Irish fresh horticulture produce. However, mushrooms destined for the UK market represent a major export with a value in excess of €100million. Amenity products which comprise 20% of total production, are focused to a large extent on the domestic market. The main exports are Christmas trees, nursery stock & cut foliage.

The sector faces competitive pressures, particularly due to high input costs, notably energy, competitively priced imports, lack of scale and limited development in innovation.

Notwithstanding this, the sector has potential for further development. The food service market offers opportunities to replace imported product with home grown seasonal produce, to supply into the organic market and to diversify to meet ethnic food demands. Bord Bia’s recent review of the amenity sector identified the need to innovate, to develop new products and services and markets. It was considered that the best way to do this was through a coordinated approach where businesses, both large and small would combine resources to exploit new opportunities.

Horticulture has been transformed in the past decade by technological advances. Technology and advances in plant genetic research offer new products, new production methods and new approaches to the market. Maximising this potential requires a greater integration between state agencies, research institutes and industry. Existing development progammes and schemes should be looked at, and restructured, if necessary, to assist the commercialisation and adoption of new developments in horticultural technology, with the objective of facilitating and assisting entrepreneurs take advantage of the opportunities arising from emerging technology and the intellectual property associated with it.

 

 

Recommendations

As with all the sectoral analyses, the recommendations to realise the potential of the horticulture sector should be considered in tandem with the general farm and industry level recommendations set out in Section 3.

Restoring Competitiveness

 DAFF should encourage greater participation in the development of producer organisations to facilitate greater bargaining power in the marketplace and to encourage the adoption of new technologies and best practice at sub-sectoral level.

 The industry must continually adapt its production methods both to minimise environmental effects and to benefit from adopting green technologies

 Relevant state agencies should foster product and production innovation, the adoption of emerging technologies and plant breeding.

 Processors should invest in specialised plant and equipment to improve labour productivity, working conditions and the quality of output.

 DAFF should review funding under the Horticultural NDP with a view to maximising the uptake of green technology, including water recycling, energy from waste and innovation based on plant production.

 The relevant Departments should review existing programmes and supports in relation to the horticulture sector, and should identify any changes in legislation or in the scope and type of measures required to develop the industry and associated businesses.

Branding and Marketing Issues

 DAFF and the relevant State agencies should further promote the health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle.

 Bord Bia should identify opportunities in relation to new products, e.g. herbs, indoor fruit production, mini potatoes, ornamentals and develop consumer awareness of domestic varieties.

 Bord Bia-led market research should explore the opportunities for production of non- traditional fruit and vegetables.

 

22 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Minister Smith Launches Innovation Funding for Food Industry - www.HortiTrends.com

 

Minister Smith Launches Innovation Funding for Food Industry

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD today announced details of innovation funding for small Irish companies in the food industry. Innovation Vouchers worth €5,000 each are available to all small companies in the food sector over the next 6 weeks. The deadline for applications is 20th August 2010.

Making the announcement Minister Smith said: "Innovation Vouchers are the push that many small Irish food companies need to explore how innovation can change their business for the better, be it through new product development or the improvement of existing processes".

"The success of the vouchers to date is due to the simplicity of the initiative.  Participating companies get excellent value for money from the research teams working in the forty institutes providing their expertise and knowledge, both in Ireland and in Northern Ireland.  I encourage small companies in the Irish food industry to see how a little knowledge can make a huge difference to your bottom line and to make an application for a €5,000 Innovation-Voucher today" he concluded.

Enterprise Ireland manage the Innovation Voucher initiative which offers small companies €5,000 to obtain an innovative solution to a technical or business challenge from a Higher Education Institute in Ireland or Northern Ireland, known as 'knowledge providers'.

Companies in the following sectors can apply:

  • Beverages, bakery and food technology including animal feed producers,
  • Consumer food companies including those involved in horticulture, organic produce, poultry, prepared consumer foods and seafood,
  • Dairy and functional foods and the primary meat sectors including those involved in the processing of beef, lamb and pigmeat, the by-products of all meat processing and those involved in the bloodstock industry.

Welcoming the announcement, the Minister for Science, Technology & Innovation Conor Lenihan T.D said: "The Innovation Vouchers initiative has been up and running since 2007 and through funding provided by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Innovation has already helped over 1,000 small companies in Ireland to find a research partner who can solve some of their business challenges. The decision by my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, to provide funding for a call for proposals dedicated to the food sector is most welcome".

You can apply for an Innovation Voucher and get more details on this Enterprise Ireland managed initiative onwww.innovationvouchers.ie or by contacting Pat O'Brien, Enterprise Ireland on +353 1 7272766.

 

19 Jul 2010

Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Market for Horticultural Products - www.HortiTrends.com

Market for Horticultural Products 

Food Crops

The key outlet for fresh produce is the retail market and in particular through the major multiples outlets.

The retail market in Ireland is the most important market for sales of fresh produce. The retail market for fresh produce was valued at €1.203 billion in 2007 which was a 5.4% growth compared with 2006. This market is made up of sales of fruit (45.4%), salad vegetables (14.2%), vegetables (23.6%) and potatoes (16.7%). An increase in value sales was recorded in 2007 in the fruit, vegetables & salad vegetables categories with the vegetable category showing the greatest value increase of 12.7%. The potato category showed a sales value decrease of 6.9%. The key factors which contributed to the overall growth in the value figure included an increase in the retail price per Kg and greater household penetration. 88% of the retail sales now occurs through the multiple supermarkets.

A key trend in recent years has been the growth in the retail sales of chilled prepared fruit & vegetables (incl wet salads). This market was valued at €66 million in 2007 showing a growth of 20% on the previous year. Some two thirds of all households are now regular consumers from this category of products.

Value of Retail Sales of Fresh Produce 05-07

 

Value (billion)

% Change Year on Year

2005

€1.0

2006

€1.14

14.2%

2007

€1.209

5.4%

Retail Market Share for Key product categories

Category

Share of retail sales of fresh produce in %

Change in 2007 Vs 2006

Fruit

45.4

+6.6

Vegetables

23.6

+12.7

Salad Vegetables

14.2

+6.8

Potatoes

16.7

-6.9

In addition produce is also sold to the service sector. Recent market research by Bord Bia indicates that this market is worth is worth in the region of €150 million at caterers' purchase prices.

Amenity Crops:

The key market outlets for amenity products are:

  • Sales of plants/flowers to consumers which is valued at €1 billion per annum
  • Gardening & Commercial Landscape market which is valued at €1 billion per annum.

Recent years have seen a significant growth in these markets and in particular there has been strong growth in the demand for container plants which reflects the modern consumer trend for convenience, low maintenance and instant effect.

Export of Horticultural Products:

The Irish Horticultural Industry is primarily targeted towards supplying the domestic market. However there are two key areas where Horticultural products are exported in significant quantities including:

  • Mushroom exports to the UK valued at over €110 million annually
  • Amenity Product exports including Christmas Trees, Nursery Stock & Cut Foliage Products valued at €15 million annually.

{horticulture, fresh produce, Ireland}
 
18 Jul 2010

Fresh Produce News Ireland - World Fruit & Vegetable Show 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com

 

World Fruit & Vegetable Show 2010

                           
ExCeL London 27th and 28th October 2010.


The World Fruit & Vegetable Show is an international trade exhibition, targeted at a very specific sector of the market, which is focused on the fruit, vegetable and flower industry. However, it is not just for buyers, producers and exporters of produce, it is also for any associated product or industry, such as packaging, labelling or transportation.

The number of exhibitors and visitors grew last year, despite the poor trading environment due to the world recession. Most importantly, both exhibitors and visitors found new and useful business contacts, which later developed into actual orders and trade.

 

14 Jul 2010

FLORISTS NEWS - Successful Flowers Business For Sale - NEWS FROM WWW.HORTITRENDS.COM

 

Successful Flower Printing Bussiness For Sale

  • €13,000

Sales revenue:
0 - €500k
Net profit:
0 - €250k

Small retail unit to sell at bargain price or bussiness to sell. 
The unit is located in Jervis Shopping Centre but could be moved in another location . 
The price for the unit is € 10.000 There is a rent to be paid in the actual location.The rent is negotiable 
There is not other bills to be paid than the rent (not service charge, no rates, no water or electricity bills) 
In the actual location there is water, electricity, phone line available 
Situated on the main entrance of the shopping centre benefit from a fantastic position and high levels of footfall on Henry Street. 

 
The bussiness is new brought in Ireland, Speaking roses printing on fresh cut flowers.The bussiness is very successful in over 30 countries. Be the first on your market weddings,proms ,funerals,corporations etc print pictures,logos etcYou will receive not only the equipment and supplies necessary to start and run your business, but you also get years of experience in business development, marketing strategies and public relations, which makes opening your own Speaking Roses business a great experience. We offer proven technology and equipment for both high and low volume production, as well as marketing materials, great methods and techniques, and personalized training that allow us to offer to you what truly is a 'business in a box.' 
Price €13000




Location:
The bussiness is located in the very bussy Jervis shopping centre at the main entrance on Henry street.

Website:
www.speakingrosesirl.com

 

13 Jul 2010

HortiNews - European Union to Promote Agriculture Products, Including Flowers - www.Hortitrends.com

European Union to promote ag products, including flowers

Over 60 million euros will be spent on 19 promotional programs



The European Commission has approved 19 programs in 14 member states (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, France, Greece, Italy, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom) to provide information on and to promote agricultural products in the European Union. The selected programs cover numerous products including flowers, vegetables, fruit and organic products.
The total budget of the programs running between one and three years is 60.6 million euros. The European Union will contribute half of the budget.
“In an open global market, merely producing excellent food and drink is not enough,” said Dacian Ciolos, commissioner for agriculture and rural development. “We need to increase our efforts to explain to consumers the standards and the quality of what EU agriculture puts on the table. EU programs of this sort can really help our producers in an increasingly competitive world.”
European Union to promote ag products, including flowers - Image
 

 

29 Jun 2010

HortiNews - UK Market for Flowers & Indoor Plants worth 2.2billion - www.Hortitrends.com

Overall UK Industry Size

The UK fresh cut flower and indoor plant market is worth £2.2 billion at retail level. To put this in perspective, the UK music industry is worth around £2 billion.

This represents an average spend per person per year of £36 (£28 on flowers and £8 on plants).

While this is a good increase from the 1984 value of £8 per person, it still comes nowhere near the rest of Europe, where people regularly spend £60-£100 per year on cut flowers and indoor plants.

In the UK we spend £9 on cut flowers for every £1 we spend on indoor plants. This may be because most people in the UK have gardens and so spend more on outdoor plants; or it may be because the British like to hang on to their houseplants when they are past their best, instead of treating them as a disposable item to be enjoyed and then discarded, like fresh flowers.

Around 60% of the £2.2 billion spent represents people buying flowers and plants for themselves, for their own homes. Even five years ago, most people in the UK only bought flowers for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries, and may have bought a pot plant when visiting someone. Now, we all realise the beauty of having fresh flowers and plants around our homes, workplaces and public places. Why should they be saved for special occasions only?


Copyright - Flowers & Plants Association

29 Jun 2010

HortiWork - Florist required - Horticulture Jobs, News & Trends from www.HortiTrends.com

Job Title  : Florist required
   
Job Type  : Permanent / Full-time
   
Job Description  : Florist required part time Cavan
   
The Job Applicant  : experience, qualifications, fluent enqlish essential,
Employer : Cedar Flowers
Locality : cavan, Cavan
Contact No:
Weblink : No Link
Email : aoife@cedarflowers.com

29 Jun 2010

HortiWork - Experienced Florist Required - Horticulture Jobs, News & Trends from www.HortiTrends.com


Job Title  :
Experienced Florist Required
   
Job Type  : Permanent / Part-time
   
Job Description  : Experienced Florist Required for busy Clondalkin shop.
   
The Job Applicant  : Part-time position, fluent English essential.
   
Further Details  :

 

Locality : Dublin, Dublin
Contact No: 087 9208125

 

28 Jun 2010

HortiEducate - So you want to be a Commercial Horticultural Worker - www.HortiTrends.com

Commercial Horticultural Worker

Also known as: Horticultural Worker, Commercial
Market Garden Worker
Nursery Garden Worker

Introduction

Commercial horticultural workers grow, look after and harvest plant stock. They may specialise in fruit farms or orchards, for example, where the work involves spraying, mulching, pruning, picking and grading.


View photo's and captions
  • Back to section heading links

Aspects of Work

The following table lists the Central Aspects for this career:

Central Aspects
Being physically active and on your feet
Working with plants


The following table lists the Secondary Aspects for this career:

Secondary Aspects
Working outdoors in any weather
Learning new practical skills
Getting your hands messy or dirty
Doing small and detailed tasks needing careful handling


The following table lists the Other Aspects for this career:

Other Aspects
Being interested in the biology of animals and plants
Lifting or carrying heavy things
Working on your own for long periods of time
Working evenings or weekends


Work Activities

Horticultural workers involved in commercial horticulture grow, look after and harvest plant stock. Some specialise in fruit farms or orchards where the work involves spraying, mulching, pruning, picking and grading. Where they work with crops under glass, they look after flower stock or fruit crops, such as tomatoes. They prepare soil beds, sow seed and plant cuttings.


Other tasks include controlling heat, light, temperature, humidity and watering, often with sophisticated computers. Horticultural workers control pests by spraying the stock with chemicals and also pick and pack produce ready to be sent to retailers or markets.


During the busy harvest times, horticultural workers may also be required to supervise casual staff. They may also be required to drive tractors and use other light machinery such as hedge trimmers, rotavators and mowers as well as using hand tools. They may be required to carry out basic maintenance and minor repairs to tools and equipment.


Most horticultural workers work outdoors in all weather conditions. For certain jobs such as spraying, they may have to wear protective clothing including face protection.


In garden centres, the emphasis is on retail sales to the general public. Such products would include field vegetables, fruit, protection crops grown under glass or polythene, and hardy nursery stock, such as trees, shrubs, roses and herbaceous plants.

  • Back to section heading links

Personal Qualities and Skills

You will need to be fit as the work can be physically demanding involving digging, lifting and carrying. You need to be able to understand technical information about how plants grow, the effect of pests and disease, and how to control them. A driving licence is useful although not essential.

  • Back to section heading links

Pay and Opportunities

Salaries will vary depending on the employer, qualifications and specific job description. Salaries usually start at the current national minimum wage (see www.citizensinformation.ie) but will increase with experience.

  • Back to section heading links

Entry Routes and Training

Training can be done on the job but there are a number of relevant courses available throughout the country. Teagasc and FÁS also run relevant courses.


Please visit QualifaX at http://www.qualifax.ie/ for more information on relevant courses. (Please note that you will be leaving the Career Directions website. You should save your answers if you wish to return later).

  • Back to section heading links

Qualifications

Educational requirements vary and interested candidates should contact the individual colleges directly for more specific details.


Application for admission to undergraduate courses must be made in accordance with the regulations and procedures and timetable described in the CAO Handbook


The Handbook is confined to giving information on how to apply for admission to the relevant institutions. Applicants should not attempt to complete the application form without first referring to the information literature on courses, which is available from the institutions to which application is to be made.


Please see http://www.cao.ie/courses.php for information on course qualifications.

  • Back to section heading links

Adult Opportunities

There is no upper age limit for entry to this profession. Experience in gardening or other outdoor work, paid or unpaid, can be an advantage. Teagasc welcomes applications from mature students.

  • Back to section heading links

Further Information

Resources

  • Careers Working Outdoors by A Shepherd. Kogan Page Ltd. (Careers in Series)

Contacts

  • Central Applications Office (CAO) - for application information, for course content / college information see QualifaX below.
  • Website: http://www.cao.ie
  • Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland, Cabinteely House, The Park, Cabinteely, Dublin 18.
  • Telephone: (01) 668 4358
  • Email: info@rhsi.ie
  • Website: http://www.rhsi.ie

 
24 Jun 2010

HortiWork Jobs in Horticulture - Horticultural Assistant (WPP 2) - www.HortiTrends.com

Horticultural Assistant (WPP 2)

Area of activity in which placement is offered*: Adult Services, Garden Centre. Sales, Advice & Customer Service to the public, staff, suppliers and service users. Working alongside people with disabilities. Elements of experience offered*: Serving customers, maintaining plants, ie; watering, weeding and other general maintenance duties. Maintenance of plants; merchandising stock in centre / shop; serving customers; assisting in ordering plants / stock. Person specification*: Good Communication skills with a keen interest in Horticulture.

How To Apply 

You must be registered with FAS and have checked your eligibility before you apply for this placement. To apply send CV to mdoherty@enableireland.ie

Closing Date: 2010-08-15

23 Jun 2010

HORTI FAIR 2010 – Your Horti Fair news sooner in the trade press? - News from www.HortiTrends.com

 

Your Horti Fair news sooner in the trade press?

Like the new products you are exhibiting at the Fair to appear sooner in the international horticultural trade press? Then take part in the Horti Fair trade press and novelties preview being organized on Tuesday 24 August, to which the Horti Fair invites journalists representing trade publications from Denmark, Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands, as well as international titles.

Exhibitors are given the opportunity to introduce their new products to the journalists, enabling them to realize pre-publicity for their participation in the Horti Fair - and for their company of course! In 2008 and 2009 the preview was organized in TomatoWorld in Honselersdijk, one of whose sponsors is the Horti Fair. Your new product must be registered via the exhibitors manual in order to be eligible to take part. Registrations for the preview are processed in order of receipt and the Horti Fair aims to include a balanced reflection of the range on show at the exhibition. It only costs € 425.00 (excl. BTW) to take part in this year's preview. 

http://www.hortifair.nl/en/

 

18 Jun 2010

HortiTenders - Cork Docklands Marina Park Landscape Design - News from www.HortiTrends.com

Title:Cork Docklands Marina Park Landscape Design
Published by:Cork City Council
Publication Date:18/06/2010
Application Deadline:
Notice Deadline Date:03/09/2010
Notice Deadline Time:16:00
Notice Type:Contract Notice
Has Documents:Yes
Abstract:The regeneration of Cork Docklands is a priority project for Cork City Council aiming to reviatlise 162 hectares of brownfield lands to the north and south of the River Lee and adjacent to the city centre. This project will involve the consolidation of approx 32 hectares surrounding an existing recreational area into a high quality city park to be known as Marina Park. The development of the park will provide for the active and passive recreational needs of the city including the riverside amenity area (Marina), Atlantic Pond, Showgrounds, lands surrounding Pairc Ui Chaoimh sports stadium and other lands to the east of the Docklands development area. The project aims to achieve the objectives of the South Docks Local Area Plan 2008 and its Public Realm 

http://www.etenders.gov.ie/membership/Member_HistShow.aspx?ID=JUN155155


((tags: tenders, landscape, horticulture))
18 Jun 2010

HortiWork - GARDEN CENTRE MANAGER - www.HortiTrends.com

GARDEN CENTRE MANAGER
CORK - IRELAND - SALARY: €30-40K

Garden Centre Manager required covering a wide range of duties from purchasing stock, implementing seasonal changes, creating a variety of displays, health & safety and delegating a team of staff to reach targets set. You will liaise with the owner for future development of the business. A good working knowledge of garden centre retailing is essential for this post.
REF: E760   

JOBS & CAREERS

Greenhouse, Landscape Construction, CEO, Growers,Seed Companies, President, Buyer, Propagator, Chain Stores, Garden Center Management, Floral, Botanical Gardens, Greenhouse & Nursery Supplies, Resort Horticulturist, Rewholesaler, Golf Course, Fertiliser, Marketing, Technical Irrigation, Interiorscape, Nursery, Management, Sustainability, Sales, Cut FlowersLandscape Maintenance, Supermarkets, Lawn & Garden, Flower & Live Plant, Import & Export, Grounds Manager, Designer, Estate Gardener, Superintendent, Shipping Manager, Arboriculture, Silks & Preserved, Merchandiser, Chemicals, Communications, Editor

18 Jun 2010

Latest News Feed from www.HortiTrends.com

Newsfeeds
Horticulture Trends from www.HortiTrends.com
The Latest Irish Horticulture News from Ireland and Beyond

  • HortiWork - Marketing Co-ordinator for The Orchard - News from www.HortiTrends.com 

    Marketing Co-ordinator - The Orchard

    History of Orchard Home and Garden

    Early History of the Site
    The current Orchard Home and Garden site was once part of the vast St. Wolstan’s estate. It’s thought the estate spanned 5,000 acres (2,000 ha) stretching from Celbridge to Straffan in the 1700’s.The following is an extract from a “History of St Wolstan’s”:

    ' Dr. Robert Clayton, Bishop of Clogher, bought St Wolstan’s in 1752AD. He had the architect Joshua Allen improve the house. When Dr. Clayton died his niece Anne, who was married to Dr. Thomas Bernard, Bishop of Killaloe, inherited the property. Dr. Bernard lent the house from 1787 to 1790 to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, The Marquis of Buckingham. During these years, the garden wall, with its unique heating system was built.”

    Originally, the site was a 5 acre (2 ha) walled Victorian Orchard which provided fresh fruit and vegetables for the larger houses on the estate. The wall, which still surrounds the entire site, is brick built and incorporates an ingenious system for protect susceptible fruit from damaging late spring frosts. A number of hearths are located along the wall. When there was a danger of frost, fires were lit in these hearths. The hot air from the fires flowed through special air cavities that travel through the centre of the entire wall. As a result the bricks in the wall became heated and this heat radiated out over the Orchard fending off the threatening frost.

    Current History of the Site
    Mr Gerry Dooley (Managing Director of Orchard Home and Garden) purchased the site in July 1983. The walled garden had been neglected by the previous owner whose parents had bought the site in 1939. By 1983 the walled garden was overgrown with bushes, brambles and trees. Mr Dooley cultivated the land and strawberries were grown for 3 years. 

    By 1987 Mr Dooley decided to begin trading as a garden centre, namely “The Orchard Garden Centre”. The site was cleared leaving a gardener’s house with conservatory, a small bungalow and tomato house, which subsequently functioned as the first shop. The business prospered through the 1990’s and into the early years of the new millennia. It became increasingly apparent that the first ‘Tomato House’ shop could not meet the expectations of customers so a major redevelopment of the site commenced in 2004. The redevelopment facilitated the gradual transfer of the trading premises to its new state of the art showrooms, which was officially opened by Charlie Dimmock on Sunday October 1st  2006

    Job description
    The 
Marketing coordinator will be involved and responsible for the execution of the marketing plan of 
The Orchard. You work as integral part of the Operations team. This role is full time / part-time with normal working hours, but a level of flexibility is expected. 

Day to Day responsibility:
  • Building relationships and maximising performance with advertising agency, PR 
    company and design and print companies. 
  • Answering day to day marketing enquiries
  • Planning and executing marketing promotions
  • Planning and specifying new and existing marketing collateral
  • Negotiation of deals, promotions and incentives with affiliates media partners
  • Managing and maintaining up to date mailing lists
  • Research and develop new marketing methods and promotions
  • Industry:
    Position Type:Full Time Temporary
    Position Reports To: General Manager
    Salary:25000 to 30000
    Location: Cellbridge Klidare
    Travel Required:0% of the time (approximate)
    Starts On: 1-Jun-10

    Job Requirements

    Experience
    Requirements / Skills: 
    • Preferably 2-3 years experience in similar role
    • Excellent MS Office Skills – Word, Excel, web experiences, Powerpoint etc.
    • Proven ability in using initiative and making decisions within tight deadlines
    • Target and goal orientated individual with an ability to work under pressure
    • Excellent ability to work well within a small team environment
    • Communicating with target audiences and managing customer relationships
    • Sourcing advertising opportunities and placing adverts in the press(local,regional, national and specialist publications) or on the radio (depending on the organisation and the campaign)
    • Managing the production of marketing materials, including leaflets, posters, flyers, newsletters and e-newsletters
    • Writing and proofreading copy
    • liaising with designers and printers
    • Organising photo shoots;
    • Arranging for the effective distribution of marketing materials
    • Maintaining and updating customer databases
    • Organising and attending events such as conferences, seminars, receptions and exhibitions;
    • Sourcing and securing sponsorship
    • Contributing to and developing marketing plans and strategies
    • Managing the marketing budget
    • Evaluating marketing campaigns
    • Monitoring competitor activity
    • Supporting the Owner and the General Manager and other colleagues.
    • Independently working and pro active
    • Maintaining and updating the Orchard website.

    Education Required:Marketing diploma or degree
    Fields of Expertise: Marketing, Advertsing, PR, web

    How to Apply

    Please email your CV to jeroenp@ucdirect.ie

    Company Information

    The Orchard
    Dublin road
    CelbridgeKildare

    Permalink

  • sap 

    Sap Trees Sorbus aria Majestica 16-18cm girth

    from YouTube - saptrees's Channel by saptrees

    A close up of the Sorbus aria Majestica 16-18cm girth from Ireland`s largest tree nursery Sap nurseries. tel: 00353 52 7442222
    From: saptrees
    Views: 106
        
    ratings

    Permalink

  • Date for Diary Trade Event B2C - Autumn Ideal Home Show - News from www.HortiTrends.com 

    Ideal Home Show


    Date: Thursday October 21, 2010 - Monday October 25, 2010

    Venue: Hall 8C

    Organiser's Contact Details: 
    SDL Exhibitions Limited 
    18 Main Street 
    Rathfarnham 
    Dublin 14

    Tel: + 353 (0)1 490 0600 
    Email: info@sdlexpo.com 
    Web: http://www.sdlexpo.com

    Permalink

  • RDS Horticulture Student of the Year 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com 

    RDS Horticulture Student of the Year 2010

    James Sherlock from Skerries, Co. Dublin is the 2010 RDS Horticulture
    Student of the Year. James was presented with his award by Minister of State for Sustainable
    Transport, Horticulture, Planning and Heritage, Ciaran Cuffe TD, at a special ceremony in the
    RDS. He was awarded a beautiful RDS perpetual trophy, an RDS Silver Medal and a cheque for
    €2,500.

    James, who is in the third year of his bachelor of science in horticulture at the College of
    Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin, plans to use the prize
    money to complete the fourth year of his studies. James hopes that on completion of his studies
    he will have the skills, knowledge and experience to apply to local government for an advisory
    position and one day realise his career goal of becoming a parks superintendent.
    James has a love and interest in the outdoors in his blood. Generations of his family have
    farmed their own land in Rush and Skerries, Co. Dublin and James grew up spending his
    summers working alongside his grandfather learning what can be produced from the land and
    all aspects of both horticulture and agriculture.

    Runner up, in a very close contest was James Cuffey of the College of Agriculture, Food and
    Rural Enterprise, Greenmount, Co. Antrim. James is the recipient of an RDS Certificate of Merit
    and a cheque for €1,000.

    Each year all four colleges of horticulture in Ireland nominate their two best final year students
    to compete for this award. From the eight nominees, selection is based on their career to date,
    knowledge of horticulture and plans for the nominees’ future careers.

    The enthusiasm and commitment of past horticulture students has contributed to an enormous
    improvement in the quality of life for people all over Ireland. The Irish horticultural sector is
    worth more than €300 million to the economy and there are over 10,000 employed in the
    Horticulture industry full time. 

    Minister of State, Ciaran Cuffe, commended the RDS on their
    work supporting an industry that contributes greatly to the quality of life of the people all over
    Ireland, and continues to make a very significant contribution to the Irish economy.
    Anne James, Principal of the Judging Panel, described the finalists as a growing number of very
    talented young people opting for a career in the rapidly expanding amenity horticulture area.

    The RDS Horticulture Student of the Year is part of the RDS Foundation’s agriculture
    programme which aims to inform, debate and promote excellence in agricultural and rural
    development as well as recognising and rewarding the professional development of young
    practitioners and supporting developmental projects in agriculture and rural life.

    Permalink

  • Garden Centre News - Diary Dates - The Autumn Gift Fair - News from www.HortiTrends.com 

    The Autumn Gift Fair

    Date: Sunday August 22, 2010 - Wednesday August 25, 2010

    Venue: Hall 8C

    Organiser's Contact Details: 
    Expo Exhibitions 
    4th Floor, Building 2 
    The Courtyard 
    Carmenhall Road 
    Sandyford 
    Dublin 18

    Tel: +353 (0) 1 295 8181 
    Email: info@expo-events.com 
    Fax: +353 (0) 1 295 8187 
    Web: http://www.expo-events.com

    Permalink

  • www.HortiTrends.com News Call - Send us your Latest Company News to news@HortiTrends.com 

    CONTACT DETAILS

    www.HortiTrends.com

    HorticultureTrends

    News . Sales . Marketing  
    Business Development Consultancy.

    Expertise, Practical Know-how, Passion for the Horticulture & Lifestyle Sectors...

    #20 The Cutlers . 33/34 Parliament Street    Dublin 2 . Ireland .
        
        Tel:   01. 6127080

    Mobile: 087.9212044
       
       Fax:  01. 612 7072

    Email: jblair@hortitrends.com

    Directions to HortiTrends offices:
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  • 18 Jun 2010

    Date for Diary Trade Event B2C - Autumn Ideal Home Show - News from www.HortiTrends.com

    Ideal Home Show


    Date: Thursday October 21, 2010 - Monday October 25, 2010

    Venue: Hall 8C

    Organiser's Contact Details: 
    SDL Exhibitions Limited 
    18 Main Street 
    Rathfarnham 
    Dublin 14

    Tel: + 353 (0)1 490 0600 
    Email: info@sdlexpo.com 
    Web: http://www.sdlexpo.com

    18 Jun 2010

    RDS Horticulture Student of the Year 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com

    RDS Horticulture Student of the Year 2010

    James Sherlock from Skerries, Co. Dublin is the 2010 RDS Horticulture
    Student of the Year. James was presented with his award by Minister of State for Sustainable
    Transport, Horticulture, Planning and Heritage, Ciaran Cuffe TD, at a special ceremony in the
    RDS. He was awarded a beautiful RDS perpetual trophy, an RDS Silver Medal and a cheque for
    €2,500.

    James, who is in the third year of his bachelor of science in horticulture at the College of
    Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin, plans to use the prize
    money to complete the fourth year of his studies. James hopes that on completion of his studies
    he will have the skills, knowledge and experience to apply to local government for an advisory
    position and one day realise his career goal of becoming a parks superintendent.
    James has a love and interest in the outdoors in his blood. Generations of his family have
    farmed their own land in Rush and Skerries, Co. Dublin and James grew up spending his
    summers working alongside his grandfather learning what can be produced from the land and
    all aspects of both horticulture and agriculture.

    Runner up, in a very close contest was James Cuffey of the College of Agriculture, Food and
    Rural Enterprise, Greenmount, Co. Antrim. James is the recipient of an RDS Certificate of Merit
    and a cheque for €1,000.

    Each year all four colleges of horticulture in Ireland nominate their two best final year students
    to compete for this award. From the eight nominees, selection is based on their career to date,
    knowledge of horticulture and plans for the nominees’ future careers.

    The enthusiasm and commitment of past horticulture students has contributed to an enormous
    improvement in the quality of life for people all over Ireland. The Irish horticultural sector is
    worth more than €300 million to the economy and there are over 10,000 employed in the
    Horticulture industry full time. 

    Minister of State, Ciaran Cuffe, commended the RDS on their
    work supporting an industry that contributes greatly to the quality of life of the people all over
    Ireland, and continues to make a very significant contribution to the Irish economy.
    Anne James, Principal of the Judging Panel, described the finalists as a growing number of very
    talented young people opting for a career in the rapidly expanding amenity horticulture area.

    The RDS Horticulture Student of the Year is part of the RDS Foundation’s agriculture
    programme which aims to inform, debate and promote excellence in agricultural and rural
    development as well as recognising and rewarding the professional development of young
    practitioners and supporting developmental projects in agriculture and rural life.
    18 Jun 2010

    Garden Centre News - Diary Dates - The Autumn Gift Fair - News from www.HortiTrends.com

    The Autumn Gift Fair

    Date: Sunday August 22, 2010 - Wednesday August 25, 2010

    Venue: Hall 8C

    Organiser's Contact Details: 
    Expo Exhibitions 
    4th Floor, Building 2 
    The Courtyard 
    Carmenhall Road 
    Sandyford 
    Dublin 18

    Tel: +353 (0) 1 295 8181 
    Email: info@expo-events.com 
    Fax: +353 (0) 1 295 8187 
    Web: http://www.expo-events.com

    18 Jun 2010

    www.HortiTrends.com News Call - Send us your Latest Company News to news@HortiTrends.com

    CONTACT DETAILS

    www.HortiTrends.com

    HorticultureTrends

    News . Sales . Marketing  
    Business Development Consultancy.

    Expertise, Practical Know-how, Passion for the Horticulture & Lifestyle Sectors...

    #20 The Cutlers . 33/34 Parliament Street    Dublin 2 . Ireland .
       
        Tel:   01. 6127080

    Mobile: 087.9212044
       
       Fax:  01. 612 7072

    Email: jblair@hortitrends.com

    Directions to HortiTrends offices:
    http://maps.google.com/maps/place?georestrict=input_srcid:47be0ad78b7971fe&hl=en


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