Ukraine

The Botanical Garden is developing a new area of work – therapeutic gardening – among various sections of the public, and is putting into practice the principles of mental rehabilitation for people who have experienced psychological trauma, including as a result of war. This year, as part of the 8th International Day of Plants and a new line of work in therapeutic horticulture, the arboretum of the Kryvyi Rih Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine will host a charity “Lilac Weekend” for students from the “University of the Third Age”. The event will feature an open-air painting session entitled “Colours of Spring” and a variety of guided tours around the botanical garden, all of which will conclude at the collection of syringa and tree-like peonies. Syringas and peonies will envelop visitors in their incomparable aromas and delight them with a rich array of colours, whilst a lively warm-up session and traditional “botanical tea” served with tasty treats will lift everyone’s spirits. The event will be enhanced by musical performances from two Kryvyi Rih orchestras: the municipal orchestra and the orchestra of the 4th Music School.

“The Pine Tree – A Symbol of Longevity and Wisdom” The “Olexandria” Dendropark is one of the oldest parks in Ukraine, founded in 1788. Exotic plants have been introduced into the park’s landscapes since its founding – pines are among the oldest plants in the park. The modern pine collection at the “Olexandria” Dendropark comprises 19 species and 17 varieties. These evergreen beauties have adorned the park since the late 18th century, and the “Branicki Family Tree” is a symbol of strong family ties. During the tour, visitors are invited to explore the pine collection at the “Coniferetum” exhibition area and the centuries-old beauties of Olexandria Park, and to stroll along the romantic alleys in the historic part of the park accompanied by experienced guides. They can listen to interesting stories, take part in a photo session, and answer questions in the “What Do You Know About Pine Trees?” quiz.

Syrets Dendrological Park was founded in 1949. Coniferous species occupy a significant place in the park’s landscape compositions. Some trees from the first plantings have survived to the present day and are now over one hundred years old; among them are the oldest representatives of certain species in Kyiv. Coniferous species included in the Red Book of Ukraine are of particular scientific and conservation value within the dendroflora of the park.

The collection of tropical and subtropical plants was established during the first years of the Botanical Garden’s existence. Today, this collection is one of the largest in the world: the greenhouses contain more than 4,000 species, varieties, forms and cultivars of plants originating from different parts of the world. Participants will enjoy an interesting guided tour of the tropical and subtropical greenhouse, whose walls preserve the remarkable history of the Botanical Garden. Visitors will see rare specimens of the southern Livistona palm, which is over 200 years old, the Chilean wine palm, which is 150 years old, and Bunya pine, which is over 180 years old. The guide will speak about typical and endemic plant species, plants with different life forms, as well as species with interesting morphological features. In addition, the greenhouses contain little-known, rare and endangered plants in their natural habitats, as well as useful exotic plants whose fruits can commonly be found on store shelves.

On 21 May 2026, on the occasion of Science Day and Fascination of Plants Day, and within the framework of partnership with the State University of Trade and Economics, a visit of first-year SUTE students to the Institute of Cell Biology and Genetic Engineering of the NAS of Ukraine is planned. The programme will include a lecture entitled “Plant Genetic Engineering: Improving Traits, Increasing Cultivation Efficiency and Meeting Human Needs.” An overview tour of the Institute is also planned to introduce students to the achievements of Ukrainian scientists in the field of plant genetic engineering.

The О.V. Fomin Botanical Garden of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Ukraine. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in an interesting and informative guided tour of the scientific section of the Botanical Garden. The guide will speak about the landmark plants of the Botanical Garden and show a collection of living specimens that are more than 150 years old. During the tour, participants will visit the open-ground plant collection areas, learn about the history of the establishment and development of the Botanical Garden, and hear about the prominent scientists who worked there.