Greenhouses

Overview

Nestled within the sprawling expanse of the Botanical Garden Of The National Academy Of Sciences in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, lies a captivating sub-spot: its Greenhouses. This dedicated section serves as a vibrant sanctuary for a diverse array of plant life, offering a unique opportunity to explore exotic flora from around the globe, even amidst Kyrgyzstan's temperate climate. It stands as a testament to dedicated botanical research and conservation, a place where the warmth of the tropics is preserved year-round for both scientific study and public appreciation.

The Greenhouses are an integral part of the larger Botanical Garden, which itself is one of Central Asia's largest and most diverse botanical collections. While the entire garden encompasses a vast 124 hectares, with 36 hectares open to the public, the Greenhouses provide a focused experience, allowing visitors to step into a miniature world where summer perpetually reigns.

History & Cultural Background

The history of the Greenhouses within the Botanical Garden is deeply intertwined with the garden's broader establishment. The Botanical Garden Of The National Academy Of Sciences was founded in 1938, becoming a vital scientific institution. However, the specific structure of the main greenhouse holds a poignant history, having been constructed in 1947 by German prisoners of war. Following its construction, in the 1950s, two dedicated candidates of biological sciences, Lyubov Krivosheeva and Yulia Pototskaya, embarked on the monumental task of compiling and nurturing its initial collection of tropical and subtropical plants.

This dedication transformed the greenhouse into a living laboratory and a repository of botanical treasures. Over decades, it has evolved into a crucial center for plant introduction and the preservation of a unique gene pool, contributing significantly to environmental protection and the sustainable use of global biological diversity within the region.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Greenhouses apart is their remarkable collection of over 500 species of tropical and subtropical plants, creating an ecosystem that thrives despite Bishkek's sometimes harsh winters. Visitors are greeted by the enchanting scent of blooming grapefruit, a hybrid of pomelo and orange, hinting at the exotic wonders within. Inside, you'll encounter plants like the towering Washingtonia palm, surrounded by a lush bamboo grove, and a large-flowered magnolia whose branches stretch towards the ceiling.

The collection also boasts a 'separate pride' in its vast array of cacti and succulents, many of which are rare varieties. Other notable inhabitants include bananas, ficuses, ferns, hibiscus, medlar, monstera, and iodine-rich feijoa, as well as avocado and guava plants. The Greenhouses provide a spectacular display where flowering occurs year-round, ensuring that something is always in bloom, offering a continuous cycle of life and color.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Greenhouses are not just a collection of plants; they are a story of human dedication and resilience. One heartwarming detail is the practice of manual pollination. Due to a scarcity of natural insect pollinators within the enclosed environment, the staff and interns meticulously hand-pollinate the plants with brushes to ensure fruit setting. Their long-term dream is to establish a colony of bumblebees for natural pollination and introduce predatory insects to manage pests organically.

Another endearing aspect is the volunteer spirit that helps sustain this botanical haven. An 82-year-old volunteer named Galina Ivanovna dedicates herself to caring for the cacti and succulents three times a week, a commitment born from her personal passion, having even donated many of her own cacti to the garden. Aisha Turbatova, who has worked at the Botanical Garden for 43 years and now heads the ornamental plants laboratory, exemplifies the deep-rooted commitment of the staff.

Despite the beauty, the Greenhouses have faced challenges. In 2018, a heating failure during a severe frost led to temperatures dropping to -10°C inside, tragically damaging about 30% of the tropical plant collection. This incident highlighted the aging infrastructure, with frames and glass showing wear since its 1947 construction, yet the staff's unwavering efforts managed to save many plants.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Greenhouses within the Botanical Garden Of The National Academy Of Sciences offers a tranquil and educational escape from the urban environment of Bishkek. For those curious about the plant world, tours led by experienced scientific staff are available. These experts not only introduce the exotic species but also share insights into their characteristics and the history of their introduction to the garden.

Beyond the visual feast, these tours also provide a practical benefit: visitors can receive valuable advice on caring for their own houseplants, making the experience both inspiring and informative. It's a peaceful woodland oasis where one can stroll amidst lush greenery, breathe clean air, and gain a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and the dedicated people who nurture it. While parts of the broader garden may vary in maintenance, the Greenhouses stand out as a carefully tended area, offering a truly unique and enriching experience.