Cannabis Strain Triumphs at Europe's Prestigious IPM Essen Horticulture Show
A cannabis strain has won the top prize at IPM Essen, Europe's leading horticulture show, marking a significant shift in industry perception
Key Points
- 1Cannabis strain BCN Critical XXL wins top prize at IPM Essen
- 2This marks the first cannabis entry in the show's official plant showcase
- 3The award reflects a growing acceptance of cannabis in traditional horticulture
- 4Seedstockers' strain was praised for its simplicity and versatility
- 5The win signifies a cultural shift towards cannabis normalization
In an unprecedented achievement, a cannabis strain has claimed the top prize at the IPM Essen, the leading horticulture trade show in Germany. BCN Critical XXL Autoflower, bred by Seedstockers, won the Publikumspreis, or public award, marking the first time a cannabis plant has been recognized at this esteemed event. The strain captivated attendees, who are typically focused on traditional horticultural products
The IPM Essen is renowned for showcasing innovations in floriculture, agriculture, and landscaping, drawing industry professionals from around the globe. This year's event featured 42 plant entries from 27 companies, with cannabis making its debut in the official plant showcase. The selection of BCN Critical XXL by a majority of horticulture professionals signals a significant shift in the perception of cannabis within the industry
Seedstockers presented BCN Critical XXL as an accessible and straightforward strain, designed for ease of cultivation without the need for complex light-cycle management. This approach appealed to both novice growers and those seeking low-maintenance options, highlighting the strain's versatility and practicality. The award was presented by prominent figures from Germany’s horticultural community, further emphasizing the mainstream acceptance of cannabis
The victory of a cannabis plant at such a traditional event reflects a broader cultural shift towards the normalization of cannabis. As noted by Seedstockers' CEO Jouke Piepenbrink, this win is not just a triumph for their company but for the cannabis plant itself, as it was judged purely on merit alongside conventional horticultural entries. This development suggests that cannabis is steadily being integrated into mainstream horticulture, appreciated for its horticultural qualities rather than its controversial past