Horticulture is Life - Teagasc at Bloom 2024
Bord Bia Bloom is one of Europe's premier horticulture events, drawing approximately 100,000 attendees over its five-day run. In 2024, Bloom will take place from May 30 to June 3, transforming the Phoenix Park in Dublin into a vibrant celebration of gardening, lifestyle, and sustainability.
This year, Teagasc, in collaboration with Bord Bia and the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine, will present an engaging and educational feature in the Food Village under the theme “Horticulture is Life”. This interactive feature will exhibit how the organisations work collectively to support the Irish Horticulture Industry and growers, to deliver top quality local sustainable produce and plants.
The Teagasc exhibit will offer a diverse range of activities and demonstrations. Daily stage programs will cover topics such as the beauty of planted gardens, indoor flower arrangements, biodiversity, tree knowledge, and houseplant care. In recognition of International Potato Day, there will be special talks on the benefits of potatoes.
Visitors can learn about the importance of fresh produce in nutrition, strategies to reduce food waste, and innovations in potato research. The exhibit will also highlight the environmental benefits of fruit trees and the expertise of both conventional and organic growers in bringing seasonal produce to our tables.
Five Key Areas of Interest
- The Future of Food: Discover the latest in crop and plant production research, including demonstrations of a high-tech vertical tower for growing herbs hydroponically under LED lights.
- Horticulture Education: Explore lifelong learning and apprenticeship opportunities in horticulture through Teagasc's educational programs at the National Botanic Gardens and Kildalton College.
- Biodiversity: Learn about the value of native flora and fauna and their role in maintaining biodiversity.
- Forestry: The Teagasc Forestry stand will highlight its work in optimising the multifunctional benefits and potential of our forests.
- Crops: Teagasc crops will bring the Irish potato centre stage and explain its historical significance and future potential.
The Teagasc horticulture exhibit at Bloom 2024 promises to be both informative and inspiring, showcasing Teagasc's vital role in research, advisory services, and education for the horticulture sector. With something for everyone, visitors are warmly invited to drop by, engage with the experts, and gain insights into the future of sustainable horticulture in Ireland.