The Mid-Atlantic Nursery Tradeshow (MANTS) 2024, held at the Baltimore Convention Center, stood as a testament to the ever-evolving world of horticulture. Drawing over 11,000 attendees globally, MANTS showcased a spectrum of industry professionals – from decision-makers to influencers in the green industry. Known for its business-driven format, MANTS encourages direct interactions on the show floor, a tradition that has become its cornerstone since its inception in 1971. As a premier event in the horticulture calendar, MANTS 2024 brought together the brightest minds and latest trends, shaping the future of our industry.
MANTS 2024 offered more than just networking opportunities; it was a hub for learning from world-class experts across a wide array of topics in landscaping and growing. The show floor, a sold-out space buzzing with peer-to-peer education, showcased a wide array of products and services, reflecting the latest trends and advancements in the horticulture industry. Attendees were immersed in a dynamic environment featuring an array of plants, nursery stock, garden items, equipment, technology, and outdoor living essentials. This diverse showcase not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also highlighted the evolving and vibrant nature of the horticulture sector.
Among the myriad of insights gained, several key trends stood out, significantly shaping our learning experience:
Plant Varieties and Suppliers
The event showcased a variety of plant species and suppliers, offering insights into consumer preferences and market trends.
Technology Integration
The integration of technology in horticulture, although not the primary focus, was a key topic. This included automation, data analytics, and how these tools are transforming farming practices.
Labor Challenges and Solutions
Innovative strategies to address labor shortages and optimize workforce efficiency were widely discussed, underlining the industry's focus on sustainable labor solutions.
Landscaping Tools, Equipment, and Materials
The latest in landscaping tools and materials were on display, indicating the sector's growth and the increasing demand for high-quality, innovative landscaping solutions.
Our experience at MANTS 2024 was not only enlightening but transformative for us at Growmentum. This tradeshow provided a profound opportunity to delve into the current and emerging trends of horticulture, connecting us directly with the core of the industry. As we reflect on our time there, we are left with a richer understanding and a rejuvenated perspective for the year ahead. We feel incredibly fortunate to have met and engaged with so many wonderful individuals across the horticulture industry. Inspired and equipped with new insights, we are more eager than ever to embrace and contribute to the bright future of growers and the horticulture sector as a whole. Just as MANTS has evolved to be more than a tradeshow, our journey at Growmentum continues to evolve, fueled by the inspirations and connections forged at this year’s event.