This group has been set up to ensure that research into the commercial production of poinsettias continues following the breakup of the AHDB. It has also been set up to ensure the industry has a strong, united voice with policymakers.
BOA Poinsettia Conference 2026
Poinsettia Growers Group UK Open Day 2026
The fifth Open Day of the Poinsettia Growers Group UK will take place on Thursday 19 November 2026 at Volmary Ltd, Wisbech St Mary, Cambridgeshire.
Bringing together poinsettia growers, suppliers and allied trades from across the industry, the event provides a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, discuss current challenges and opportunities, and explore the latest developments in poinsettia production. Attendees will also have the chance to engage in wider discussions on topics affecting the horticultural sector.
The Poinsettia Growers Group was established to help fill the gap left by the cessation of AHDB’s role in coordinating horticultural research and development within the UK. Since its formation, the Group has become an important forum for collaboration, innovation and the exchange of technical expertise among poinsettia producers and industry professionals.
Whether you are directly involved in poinsettia production or have an interest in the wider ornamental horticulture sector, this Open Day offers an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues, gain practical insights and contribute to discussions shaping the future of the industry.
Members of the Poinsettia Growers Group are entitled to one free ticket per business. To claim your member discount code, please email poinsettia@britishornamentals.org. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Book before 30 September 2026 to benefit from our Early Bird ticket offer.
Meet the Speakers
Dr Alexander Sentinella
Director of Science, Growing Media Europe
Alexander is the Director of Science at Growing Media Europe AISBL, an international non-profit organisation representing producers of growing media and soil improvers at the European level. Originally from Australia, Alexander holds a PhD in Biology from the University of New South Wales. Alexander’s work aims to bridge the gap between science and industry, fostering innovations in growing media and horticulture. By using the latest scientific and industry knowledge (such as GME’s growing media LCA platform), while also committing to the principles of environmental sustainability, he aims to contribute to meaningful, evidence-based practices and policies.
Dr Gonçalo Silva
Senior Lecturer in Plant Virology and Diagnostics, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich
Gonçalo Silva is a Senior Lecturer at the Natural Resources Institute (NRI), University of Greenwich (part of the London and South East University Group), where his research focuses on developing practical diagnostic tools for detecting and identifying plant pests and pathogens. Over the past 15 years he has worked on molecular and field-based diagnostics, applying technologies such as high-throughput sequencing and isothermal amplification to plant health problems in the UK and internationally. Gonçalo currently leads work on a novel smart trap for the early detection of regulated plant pests, which combines optical sensing with machine learning to identify insects in real time from their flight signatures. He works closely with commercial growers, industry partners and regulatory bodies to ensure new detection tools are practical, affordable and fit for purpose.
Henrik Nielsen
Account Manager Pot & Bedding Plants UK & Ireland, Dümmen Orange
Henrik Nielsen has been in the Young Plants business since 1989. In the past he worked for Gasa Young Plants and Newey group. Since 2023 he has been working as a direct representative for Dümmen Orange to the UK market.
Andy Abbey
UK & Ireland Sales Representative and Product Trade Manager, Beekenkamp
Andy has spent all his working career in ornamental horticulture since graduating from Writtle Agricultural College in 1988. Deciding to specialise in Year round chrysanthemum production following a sandwich year placement during his studies with Southern Glasshouse Produce in Hampshire. On leaving college he worked on a small AYR unit near Boston Lincolnshire, before returning to Southern Glasshouse Produce, where he worked for a period of 4 years in several management roles, including a technical consultant role in The Gambia.
A further role in The Gambia and a return to production in the UK at Copsey’s, where Andy’s hands on growing knowledge increased from Chrysanthemums, into many different ornamental cut & pot plants including poinsettias. Joining Yoder Toddington as a technical sales adviser in 1998 he served for 8 years and then Sakata / Earley Ornamentals for a further 8 years before joining Beekenkamp Plants B.V. in 2015, where he serves customers over the U.K and Ireland.
More speakers still to be announced!
Kindly sponsored by:
Exhibitors include:
