71st Kifissia Flower Show
The coexistence of tradition, innovation and scientific dialogue
by Katerina Tsourtsoula*
The Kifissia Flower Show is one of the longest-standing and most beloved spring institutions in Attica, Greece. Since 1937 — with a single interruption during the period 1940–1955 — it has been a living point of reference for Greek floriculture, green innovation and cultural expression. In the lush “Dimitris Zomopoulos” Kifissia Grove, more than 75,000 visitors from Greece and abroad flock every year to enjoy a rich programme of exhibitions, activities and events.
The 71st edition, held from 25 April to 18 May 2025, proved in the clearest way that the event not only maintains its momentum, but is evolving with boldness and outward-looking spirit. With a rich exhibition programme, themed workshops, cultural and children’s activities, concerts, theatre performances and impressive productions, this year’s Flower Show recorded a significant increase in visitor numbers, leaving an excellent impression on the public.
Scientific Conferences:
Nature, Sustainable Development and Holistic Health
For the first time this year, two scientific conferences were included in the official programme of the Flower Show, hosted at the Conference Hall of the Goulandris National History Museum. The conferences were held under the auspices of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, the Agricultural University of Athens, the University of Thessaly and the Museum itself, highlighting the close connection between the Flower Show, scientific knowledge and the contemporary environmental agenda.
Over two days of dialogue, the relationship between nature and science, health, sustainable development and mental wellbeing was showcased in a systematic and well-documented way, creating a new field of scientific exchange around the challenges of the environment and urban green spaces.
The first conference, entitled “Contemporary Practices in Floriculture and Landscape Design: Dry Gardens, Climate Change & Sustainable Development”, took place on Saturday 3 May 2025 and attracted participants from local government, professional agronomists, environmental consultants, as well as citizens with a strong interest in urban green spaces.
The architecture of dry landscapes has developed rapidly in recent years as a response to the consequences of climate change and the intense water scarcity already observed in many Mediterranean regions. The design of dry gardens — outdoor planted spaces that require very little or even no water — is based primarily on the use of plant species that are highly resistant to drought. Through a specific, systematic methodology for the design of outdoor spaces, a wide range of sustainable solutions is created, ensuring water savings and minimal maintenance through the use of local materials and native plants. Key stages of this methodology include data collection and analysis, formulation of the design proposal, detailed spatial design and verification of the achievement of predefined objectives.
The conference opened with a presentation by Dr Maria Papafotiou, Professor and Director of the Laboratory of Floriculture & Landscape Architecture at the Agricultural University of Athens, who highlighted how the climate crisis makes it imperative to limit irrigation in urban green spaces and adopt “xeriscaping”. She focused on the Laboratory’s systematic, long-term research on xerophytic native species of the Greek and Mediterranean flora, with the aim of integrating them into floriculture and landscape architecture to create sustainable, resilient outdoor spaces with reduced water needs.
As she presented, the research work includes:
– establishing criteria for the proper selection of plant species,
– developing propagation protocols using conventional and biotechnological methods (such as tissue culture),
– shaping appropriate nursery cultivation practices, and
– studying plant tolerance to hot and dry conditions.
More than 40 native species have already been investigated for their suitability for use in urban green spaces, with particular emphasis on extensive green roofs and archaeological sites. The experiments focus on the depth and composition of the growing substrate, as well as on plant tolerance to water stress, while the research results have been published in international scientific journals and presented at numerous conferences, positioning xeriscaping as a central tool for the urban green spaces of the future.
In her lecture entitled “Aromatic Plants and Pollinators: A Lifelong Relationship”, Dr Filitsa Karamaouna, Senior Researcher at the Benaki Phytopathological Institute, presented a characteristic example from the agricultural landscape of Argolis: the use of aromatic plants at the margins of orange groves as a tool to enhance pollinator habitats (managed and wild bees).
Within the framework of the PRIMA PLANT-B research project (2019–2022), a mixed production system was developed, combining orange cultivation with aromatic plants such as savory, oregano and sage, in synergy with beekeeping. The results showed that the margins planted with aromatic species had abundant flowering and attracted far higher bee populations compared to areas with only spontaneous vegetation, confirming the great ecological value of these plants. Each species (sage, savory, oregano) contributed differently to the duration and intensity of flowering, ensuring a continuous supply of food for pollinators. The presentation demonstrated how this “lifelong relationship” between aromatic plants and bees can serve as a model not only for rural landscapes, but also for the creation of rich, pollinator-friendly urban gardens.
The presentation by Ms. Nicoletta Dalli, Assistant Professor at the Department of Crop Science and Rural Environment of the University of Thessaly, entitled
“Plant Protection in the Garden – Plant Extracts and Natural Alternatives”,
focused on the importance of rational plant protection in gardens. She stressed that although the use of plant protection products in private spaces is widespread, legislation imposes strict restrictions, prohibiting the use of agricultural pesticides within 50 metres of areas with human activity.
In this context, she highlighted the need to turn to safer, more environmentally friendly solutions, such as low-risk plant protection products and basic substances, in line with Regulation (EC) 1107/2009. Particular emphasis was given to ready-to-use formulations for amateur users, as most home gardeners do not have specialised training.
At the same time, practical applications from the fields of floriculture and aromatic plant production were presented: many plants that adorn our gardens — including aromatic species and native ornamental plants — can be used to prepare plant extracts with strong biological activity that are friendly to non-target organisms. These natural preparations are a powerful weapon against pests, while also contributing to environmental protection and public health. Ms Dalli’s approach reinforces the idea that green plant protection can be applied effectively in home gardens, drawing on both scientific knowledge and the wisdom of nature.
With the topic “Creating a Bee Garden in Athens”, Professor Emerita of Ecology–Biogeography at the Department of Geography of the University of the Aegean, Ms Theodora Petanidou, presented a highly topical proposal for designing bee gardens in Athens, underlining the importance of urban green spaces for the conservation of bee diversity. Although cities are affected by pollution and fragmented green spaces, they are at the same time hotspots of biodiversity. Attica alone hosts 25% of Greece’s bee diversity — in a country with the highest diversity of pollinators in the EU.
Ms Petanidou stressed the need for green spaces to be designed with the enhancement of wild bee fauna in mind, also in line with new EU Regulation 2024/1991. She proposed the use of native flowering plants with staggered flowering periods, the avoidance of ornamental species that offer no nectar, delayed mowing after seed production, the provision of nesting sites and the removal of invasive species. Instead of lawns, which are considered unsuitable, the creation of corridors and micro-islands of biodiversity is encouraged. Her presentation highlighted the role of the city as a natural ally in the protection of pollinators, offering a clear vision for a greener and more sustainable Athens.
In her presentation, Dr Chara Menti, Agronomist and Head of the Environment & Greenery Department of the Municipality of Kifissia, described the challenges posed by climate change for urban green spaces: rising temperatures, reduced rainfall and heightened pressure on available water resources. She emphasised that urban green areas function as critical ecosystems within the city, contributing to climate change adaptation, connecting the urban fabric with the country’s natural landscape, and helping to preserve and enhance biodiversity.
As a realistic and immediately applicable solution for local authorities, she proposed the integration of dry, Mediterranean plant species into green space design, highlighting their multiple environmental and economic benefits. She reminded the audience that this approach has deep roots in the Greek tradition of landscape architecture, already evident in the works of architect Dimitris Pikionis on the Acropolis and Filopappou Hill Grove and noted that the themed gardens of the Kifissia Flower Show are a living example of the practical application and public education around these principles. She concluded that the systematic use of xerophytic species of the Greek flora in urban green spaces of municipalities constitutes a strategic choice for cities that are more sustainable, functional and resilient in the future.
In her presentation entitled “Drought-Tolerant Medicinal Plants and Propolis: A Systemic Approach in Relation to Health and Phytotherapy”, Dr Ioanna Dagla, scientific associate at the bioanalytical laboratory of the Goulandris National History Museum, highlighted how the combination of drought-tolerant herbs and propolis is a valuable ally for our health. She referred to well-known herbs such as aloe, which heals, soothes and detoxifies; thyme, which helps with coughs; lavender, with its relaxing properties; rosemary, which stimulates; oregano, with its strong antimicrobial action; and sage, which contributes to regulating and strengthening the body. Through a holistic, systemic approach, the presentation underscored the importance of the proper use of herbs and propolis, both in prevention and in complementary health support.
In his presentation entitled “Contemporary Practices in Floriculture and Landscape Design – Dry Gardens, Climate Change & Sustainable Development”, Dr Christos Lykas, Professor at the Department of Agriculture – Crop Production and Rural Environment of the University of Thessaly, presented dry-landscape architecture as a contemporary and substantial response to the consequences of climate change and water scarcity, phenomena that strongly affect Mediterranean regions.
He focused on the design of dry gardens — outdoor planted spaces that require minimal or no water — with the central axis being the selection of plant species with high drought resistance and the use of native species and local materials. He presented a comprehensive methodology for outdoor space design, which includes systematic data collection and analysis, formulation of the design proposal, detailed planning and monitoring the achievement of specific objectives. Through this process, a range of sustainable solutions emerges that contribute significantly to water conservation, reduced maintenance needs and the creation of resilient, functional and aesthetically high-quality urban landscapes.
The scientific conference concluded with a presentation by landscape architect Ioannis Gryllis, who spoke on “Green Technology in the City: Green Roofs and Indoor Vertical Gardens”. He stressed that green roofs offer significant environmental, energy and social benefits: they improve the microclimate and help reduce urban overheating and the urban heat island effect, clean the air by absorbing CO₂ and pollutants, retain a large proportion of stormwater, thereby reducing runoff and flood risk. At the same time, they enhance the thermal insulation and energy performance of buildings, act as natural sound insulation and create valuable biodiversity “islands” for insects and birds within the urban fabric. Likewise, as he pointed out, indoor vertical gardens function as living air filters and wellbeing features for building occupants, upgrading indoor spaces both aesthetically and functionally.
The presentations and discussion of the conference were moderated by ERT journalist Matina Ventoura. The event concluded with questions and lively dialogue with the audience, confirming the strong interest in the future of urban green spaces.
Second Conference
The second scientific conference, held on Saturday 10 May 2025 at the Goulandris National History Museum and entitled “Aromatic & Medicinal Plants: From Agri-Food to Health, Wellbeing, Mental Health and Cosmetology”, approached in a holistic way the multiple applications of Greek aromatic and medicinal plants. Through contributions from scientists in the fields of agronomy, medicine, pharmacology and mental health, the conference highlighted herbs as a valuable natural resource with a decisive role in nutrition, prevention, therapeutic support and overall wellbeing.
With the central theme “From the Ancient Botanical Garden to the Modern Uses of Aromatic & Medicinal Plants”, the conference, in the framework of the 71st Kifissia Flower Show, showcased the scientific dimension of these plants as strategic natural resources — from agri-food to health, wellbeing and mental health — illuminating the continuity between traditional knowledge and contemporary applications and proposing sustainable crops and innovative uses of the treasures of Greek land.
The conference opened with a presentation by Dr Dionysis Mermigas, Environmental Scientist and Head of the Botany Department of the Goulandris National History Museum, entitled:
“Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Dioscorides and the Ancient Botanical Garden”.
His lecture shed light on the bridge between the knowledge of Dioscorides and the modern uses of herbs, emphasizing the continuity of the Greek botanical tradition from antiquity to the present.
In the first panel, entitled “Aromatic & Medicinal Plants: Tradition, Innovation and New Opportunities”, the speakers were:
Dr Eleni Maloupa, Agronomist, former Research Director specializing in Plant Biology and Physiology (Hellenic Agricultural Organization ELGO-DIMITRA), former Director at the Institute of Plant Breeding and Genetic Resources – ELGO-DIMITRA, Curator of the Balkan Botanic Garden of Kroussia, with the topic:
“From the Ancient to the Balkan Botanical Garden – The Neglected Rock Samphire, the Little-Known Glasswort and the Precious Wild Rose in the Service of Health, Wellbeing and Beauty”.
Dr Maloupa highlighted the value of Greek native aromatic and medicinal plants as important superfoods with outstanding nutritional and medicinal properties. She focused on rock samphire, wild rose and glasswort — plants resistant to extreme weather conditions and poor soils, with strong antioxidant activity and beneficial effects on health. Particular reference was made to their intercropping with vegetables, a practice that enhances crop sustainability, improves production and protects the environment.
Argyro Koutsouradi, Agronomist – Producer of Organic Aromatic Plants and Herbs, founder of Myrovolos Organics and recipient of the 2023 Young Woman Farmer of the Year award by the European Union, PhD, Department of Tourism Economics and Management, University of the Aegean,
developed the topic:
“From Science to Practice: Promoting the Cultivation of Rock Samphire through Intercropping”.
Her presentation highlighted the potential of crops with low water demand, resistant to high salinity and poor soils. Through the European VENUS program, in collaboration with ELGO-DIMITRA, she showed how plant species such as rock samphire, when intercropped with other crops, enhance sustainability, reduce the environmental footprint and offer superfoods with high nutritional value and significant health benefits.
Second Panel
The second panel focused on nutrition, gastronomy and the cultivation of aromatic plants within the urban fabric, with the central theme:
“The Power of Aromatic Plants: Nutrition, Cultivation and Contemporary Gastronomy”.
Chef Dina Nikolaou, Executive Chef and author of gastronomy books, focused in her presentation on how Greek herbs can be incorporated into our daily diet as well as into creative haute cuisine. She highlighted the wealth of Greek native aromatic plants — from oregano, thyme and rosemary to more unusual ingredients — and presented practical ways of using them in cooking techniques, marinades, sauces and desserts. She stressed that these herbs add not only flavor and aroma, but also significant nutritional value, contributing to a more balanced, healthy and at the same time authentically Greek gastronomic experience.
Clinical Dietitian–Nutritionist Dr Dimitris Grigorakis demonstrated in his lecture how Greek herbs act as a key “tool” for disease prevention and health promotion. Drawing on scientific evidence, he documented their role in protecting against chronic diseases, regulating metabolism, strengthening the immune system and shielding the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. He emphasized that, when systematically integrated into daily nutrition — within the framework of the Mediterranean diet — Greek herbs function as natural “superfoods”, offering not only flavor but also significant added value for long-term health and wellbeing.
Agronomist
Panagiotis Papadopoulos, Head and Co-Founder of the Open Farm Network, highlighted the importance of cultivating aromatic plants and herbs within the urban fabric as an act of environmental awareness and an upgrade of everyday life. He explained how even small spaces — balconies, rooftops, courtyards or community gardens — can be transformed into living “islands” of biodiversity that host pollinators, improve the microclimate and provide residents with fresh aromatic plants for home use. At the same time, he analyzed the main benefits, challenges and practical “care tips”, emphasizing that urban cultivation is not just a trend, but a substantial bridge for reconnecting people with nature within modern cities.
The panel discussion was moderated by Eleni Blouchou.
In the final part of the conference, the focus shifted to mental health and social inclusion through working with the land.
Agronomist Dr Giorgos Balotis, Director of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, developed the topic:
“How Gardening and Contact with Soil Affect Human Psychology”.
He stressed that gardening and landscape design function as a natural form of “therapy” for the mind and soul. Contact with nature and simple tasks such as planting, hoeing and watering help reduce stress and anxiety, lowering cortisol levels and enhancing overall wellbeing. At the same time, mood improves, a sense of purpose is cultivated and the experience of positive emotions is strengthened.
Dr Balotis also referred to the cognitive dimension of gardening, noting that multiple stimuli — colors, textures, scents — keep the brain active and “exercise” memory and concentration, even in cases of cognitive decline such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The care and growth of plants boosts self-esteem and the sense of creation and productivity, while developing skills such as responsibility, care and initiative is particularly important for children.
Overall, gardening was presented as a holistic activity that offers an escape from everyday life, helps reduce symptoms of depression and insomnia and reinforces both physical and mental health.
Technologist–Agronomist Eleni Sarafoglou, Special Education Teacher at the Special Vocational Education and Training Laboratory (EEEEK) of Rafina (formerly Daou Pentelis), presented the topic:
“How Landscape Gardening Enhances the Socialization of Children with Special Needs and Can Offer a Pathway to Their Professional Integration”.
Through specific examples and experiences from educational practice, she showcased landscape gardening as a tool for empowerment, skills development, confidence building and meaningful inclusion of children and people with special needs in society and, subsequently, in the labor market.
The presentations and discussion of the conference were moderated by ERT journalist
Christiana Maniati. The event concluded with questions and a lively dialogue with the audience, highlighting the deep interest in the role of plants in health and quality of life.
The conferences were held under the auspices of:
• the Ministry of Rural Development & Food,
• the Agricultural University of Athens,
• the University of Thessaly,
• and the Goulandris National History Museum, with free admission, which underscored their educational, social and public-oriented character.
The projeKt behind success
The design, coordination and overall curation of the two scientific conferences were undertaken entirely by the company projeKt, PR & Communication Services | Event Planning, which acted as key project partner for the Municipality of Kifissia and the 2025 Flower Show.
At the same time, the projeKt was fully responsible for the communication strategy of the Flower Show, using contemporary tools and a strategic approach to convey the spirit and content of the event to the media, social media and the wider public.
Drawing on its experience in delivering high-quality cultural and scientific projects, the projeKt combined aesthetic excellence with strategic focus, contributing substantially to the upgrade of the institution and to its establishment as a contemporary cultural and ecological point of reference.
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*Katerina Tsourtsoula is CEO & Founder of the company the projeKt, a member of the Board of Directors of ICC Hellas, Head of ICC Women Hellas, Head of the Agriculture Cluster of ICC Women Hellas and ICC Agri-Food Initiative Greece.
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Uploaded : 28 Nov 2025 09:56 GMT Updated : 14 Dec 2025 10:15 GMT
