The best of the crop will soon be revealed as the Horticulture Industry Awards open for nominations.

Central horticulturalists and orchardists are among those who can enter the awards up until June 18, which are organised by HortNZ to recognise outstanding contributions to commercial fruit and vegetable growing in New Zealand.

There are five categories, including the Bledisloe Cup, which is awarded for an outstanding and meritorious contribution to the New Zealand horticulture industry.

The President's Trophy celebrates and develops inspiring leadership within the horticulture industry.

The Industry Service Award recognises people with long and dedicated service to a supplier or service role - not a grower - who have worked beyond the call of duty for the betterment of the horticulture industry.

The Environment Award recognises a person, or organisation, that has developed and implemented a sustainable environmental project, with identifiable benefits.

The final award category is HortNZ Life Member to recognise growers with long and dedicated service as office holders of HortNZ and/or an affiliated Product Group or affiliated Grower Association.

Any grower member of HortNZ, an affiliated product group or grower association can make a nomination. Nominations can be submitted online here.

The awards are presented at the Horticulture conference gala dinner on August 29.

Last year Mike and Rebecca Casey, of Forest Lodge Orchard, won an environmental award for their cherry orchard, which operates without burning any fossil fuels.