Romania
The eighth international “Fascination of Plants Day” around 18 May 2026 will be launched by plant scientists across the world under the umbrella of the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO).
The goal of this activity is to get as many people as possible around the world fascinated by plants and enthused about the importance of plant science for agriculture and sustainable production of nutritious food, as well as for horticulture, forestry and the production of plant-based non-food products such as paper, timber, chemicals, energy and pharmaceuticals. The role of plants in environmental conservation is also a key message.
Everybody is welcome to join this initiative!
The Cluj Horticultural Days, organized by the Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development at the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, have reached their 5th edition. This event brings together businesses from horticulture, landscape architecture, tourism, and rural development to showcase their products and services to both the public and entrepreneurial communities. Throughout the event, a wide range of exhibitions and student-led activities highlight the latest innovations in horticulture, fostering interaction between students, young people, and industry professionals. These days offer an excellent opportunity to promote business initiatives and campus life. Activities include explorations of edibles plant, of microplants, the adaptation of exotic plants in different conditions, and creative transformations of plants using various tools and techniques. At the heart of it all lies a shared passion: plants.
Coordinator: Prof.dr. Mirela CORDEA
We propose an applied analysis of the role of in vitro culture in the current horticultural production context. Based on specific situations from practice, we discuss the contexts in which in vitro propagation can offer a real advantage: obtaining uniform and healthy planting material, rapidly propagating valuable genotypes, or applying the technique to species that are difficult to propagate using conventional methods. At the same time, the limitations of this technique are also addressed, ranging from initial costs and technical and legislative requirements to the challenges related to plant acclimatization. In an open framework, the participants’ dialogue will focus on the exchange of experiences, the challenges encountered in production, and the solutions applied in practice. The discussion is complemented by a short questionnaire designed to identify real needs and potential directions for application in horticulture. The workshop is aimed at horticulturists in general, producers, graduates, students, and anyone interested in the effective use of in vitro-produced plants.
Coordinators: Asist. univ. dr. Paula Oros, Prof. univ. dr. Corina Cătană
Discover the fascinating world of exotic species that successfully adapt and bear fruit even under the climatic conditions of Cluj-Napoca! The workshop “Exotic species in fruit trees” invites you to an engaging journey through lesser-known yet increasingly promising plants for future gardens and urban orchards.
The workshop is addressed to all enthusiasts of horticulture, gardening, and biodiversity who wish to gain valuable insights into the ecological requirements, maintenance practices, climatic adaptability, as well as the nutritional and ornamental benefits of exotic species such as persimmon, kiwi, pomegranate, Chinese date (jujube), olive tree, honeyberry, and aronia.
Coordinators: Lecturer. dr. Orsolya NEGRUŞIER, Prof.dr. Mirela CORDEA
We invite you to an excursion into the invisible biology of medicinal and aromatic plants. Through a guided experience, participants will discover the fascinating mechanisms by which plants synthesize and store essential oils. Participants will be presented with a selection of medicinal and aromatic plants, along with essential oils obtained at USAMV Cluj-Napoca. They will have the opportunity to directly observe, through microscopy, specialized structures such as glandular trichomes — tiny structures responsible for the aromas and therapeutic properties of plants. By correlating anatomical structure with practical applications, the activity emphasizes the close connection between modern scientific research and the phytotherapeutic tradition, offering a unique perspective on the plant universe.
Coordinators: Prof. dr. Dan Vârban, Dr. ing. Vasile Horga
Everything begins with a small, seemingly fragile seed that is dispersed and reaches a site with favorable soil and environmental conditions. Under adequate moisture, temperature, and oxygen availability, the seed germinates and develops its first roots. A seedling emerges and continues to grow, responding to environmental conditions and competing for resources such as light, water, and nutrients. Over time, the plant develops into a tree, expanding its crown, strengthening its root system, and increasing its resistance to environmental stress factors. Only a proportion of trees reach large sizes and advanced ages due to competition, disturbances, and environmental constraints. Mature trees play an important ecological role by contributing to carbon storage, regulating microclimate, and providing habitat for numerous organisms. They may also become significant elements of the landscape and human communities.
Coordinators: Asist. prof. dr. Alina TRUŢĂ, Asist. prof.dr. Horia VLASIN
Workshop organised by the “Alexandru Borza” Botanical Garden Cluj-Napoca, on May 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM.
A practical workshop held in the greenhouses of Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, where participants will learn how to choose and properly care for a houseplant, surrounded by a living botanical collection.
Throughout the session, participants will discover how to recognise a healthy plant, how to choose one based on light conditions and lifestyle, and will practice essential care techniques—from proper watering to repotting. The experience combines practical knowledge with a relaxed atmosphere, offering inspiration and confidence to integrate plants into everyday life.
The workshop will take place on May 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM, at the Small Greenhouses (next to the Botanic Institute).
The number of places is limited to 20 participants. Registration is done via email at: liliana.jarda@ubbcluj.ro
Participation in the workshop is based on the Botanical Garden entrance ticket.