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From flowers to data: key takeaways from TWO 2026
From 6 to 9 July, the 58th session of CPVO’s Technical Working Party for Ornamental Plants and Forest Trees (TWO) was held via videoconference, bringing together 32 member delegations, several observer countries and international professional organisations, totalling around 80 experts. Discussions focused on developments in the DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability) protocols, the modernisation of evaluation methods and future work on drafting international guidelines.
Colour at the heart of technical innovations
One of the highlights of this session concerned the assessment of flower colour, traditionally carried out using the RHS colour chart.
China, Japan and the Netherlands presented various solutions for analysing flower colour based on imaging and spectrophotometers. These tools enable observations to be objectified and significantly reduce the time taken for evaluation, whilst raising questions about the biological relevance of certain differences detected by the devices.
These presentations confirm the growing interest amongst CPVO members in digital and instrumental tools to harmonise DUS evaluations at an international level.
Further work on the Test Guidelines
As is the case every year, a significant part of the programme was devoted to the discussion and review of the Test Guidelines (TG).
The experts examined several protocols, notably concerning Ginkgo, Helleborus, Lotus, Magnolia, ornamental apple, Rhododendron and Zantedeschia.
At the end of the session, five protocols were recommended for adoption by the Technical Committee: Ginkgo, Helleborus, Magnolia, Rhododendron and Zantedeschia. The adoption of the new Magnolia TG will, in particular, result in the replacement of the national protocol currently used in France.
Some thoughts on molecular tools
Discussions also focused on the use of molecular markers, the confidentiality of associated data, and the prospects for international harmonisation of methods between CPVO, the OECD and ISTA.
An international survey on the molecular markers used by species was presented, with the ultimate aim of promoting the sharing of tools and greater harmonisation of practices amongst examination offices.
Preparing the Test Guidelines of tomorrow
A proposal to revise the guideline on tree peonies was presented. Several delegations expressed an interest in broadening the scope of the protocol to better reflect the current diversity of plant material.
Furthermore, the TWO’s future work will focus on the Technical Guidelines for Forsythia, ornamental apple, Alstroemeria, Torenia and Aloe, whilst possible revisions are being considered for species such as roses, tulips and peonies.
See you in Japan in 2027
The next TWO session will take place from 8 to 11 June 2027 in Yokohama (Japan). Organised as in-person event, it will be combined with a visit to the Green × Expo 2027 international horticultural exhibition, offering a unique opportunity to discover the latest innovations in the global horticultural sector.
Finally, this 58th session concluded with a symbolic moment as Hilary Papworth, President of the TWO, was presented with a medal in recognition of her long-standing commitment to CPVO.
