The 2011 IPM exhibition is once bigger and brighter than in previous years, with more exhibitors from more countries bucking the air of doom in the industry.

On the opening morning, the Oasis Floral Products stands was already proving a big talking point, thanks to their beautiful flower shop mock-up.

Deliflor reported strong interest in their Deliflorins concept that rewards florists and wholesalers for buying their varieties.

The g&v creAtive centre provided masses of design and in-shop display ideas, aimed specifically at florists. Photography was actively encouraged!

More of the creative ideas on display... This one taking the form of a complete house filled with floral arrangements.

Publishing company Blooms exhibited over a massive 600 square metre area, with lots of seasonal spring ideas just one of the attractions.

The German Florist Association exhibited their trend ideas for 2011,starting with this spring themed display.

The Anthurium Unlimited displays were real head turners and showed exactly what's possible with this versatile flower. A design show also took place today.

Yet more fabulous design was on show in the competition area, with florists from all over Germany competing for the top prizes in planted spring flower and hand-tied competitions.

An increasing number of overseas exhibitors are flocking to IPM, including Catalina Salazar from Alexandra Farms, a Colombian grower of exquisite garden style roses.

The Danish plant sector now has a dedicated hall within the show. With exhibits like this, from campanula breeder Fairytale Flowers, it's easy to see why it's a must-visit part of the exhibition.

Another familiar face was that of Regina Dinkla from Fair Flowers Fair Plants.