Review: 100th Anniversary Celebration at the IGZ

Under the motto „From Research Grows the Future“, the speakers paid tribute to the IGZ as a unique and forward-looking institute for sustainable horticultural science in Germany. The ceremonial anniversary event and the subsequent alumni gathering provided an inspiring setting for personal encounters, shared memories, and lively conversations. With global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security in mind, the IGZ is clearly focused on the future - strengthened, with a sharpened profile, and soon to be known as the „Leibniz-Institute for Horticultural Sciences“.

It was a day full of emotion, marked by appreciation, solidarity, and a tangible connection across generations - an impressive affirmation of how much our institute has grown over the decades, and how deep the sense of belonging remains.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the ADAPT.JR and BIOTIC2 groups for their dedicated organisation - as well as to everyone who, through their presence, personal contributions, and the culinary diversity of our buffet, made this day so special. The past 100 years stand not only for scientific progress in vegetable and ornamental plant research, but also for collaboration, interdisciplinary exchange, and sustainable impulses that reach far beyond research itself.

The anniversary once again demonstrated the importance of personal interaction and scientific dialogue for the continued development of our institute. It is both a pleasure and a responsibility to accompany so many doctoral researchers, scientists, and staff members on their journey - yesterday, today, and in the future.