Greenhouses

Overview

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, the Greenhouses of the Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences offer a breathtaking escape into a world of exotic flora. This remarkable sub-spot, an integral part of one of Central Asia's largest and most diverse botanical gardens, serves as both a scientific marvel and a tranquil oasis. Established within the sprawling 124-hectare grounds (though some sources suggest 160 hectares, with 36 hectares accessible to the public), the greenhouses are a testament to dedicated botanical preservation and research. Here, amidst the bustling city life, visitors can immerse themselves in the lush embrace of tropical and subtropical plants, a living collection that provides a stark and beautiful contrast to the surrounding Kyrgyz landscape. The greenhouses are not merely a display but a vital living laboratory, housing hundreds of species carefully nurtured and studied by dedicated staff and volunteers.

History & Cultural Background

The Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences, named after the renowned Kyrgyz biologist Gareev, boasts a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1938. Over the decades, it evolved from a simple park into a prominent research institution, officially receiving this status in 1964. The story of its greenhouses is particularly poignant, with construction commencing in 1947, notably involving German prisoners of war. In the 1950s, pioneering candidates of biological sciences, Lyubov Krivosheeva and Yulia Pototskaya, began the painstaking work of collecting and cultivating the initial tropical and subtropical plant collections, laying the foundation for the diverse array seen today. This transformation into a research center profoundly shaped its role in the region, making it a hub for studying and preserving plant genetic resources from across the globe and Kyrgyzstan's native flora.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Greenhouses apart is their exceptional collection of over 500 species of plants, meticulously cared for within their controlled environments. Stepping inside, one is immediately greeted by the sweet, delicate fragrance of blooming grapefruit, offering a sensory journey to distant lands where summer never ends. The diversity is astounding: from the spiky allure of rare cacti and vibrant succulents to the majestic reach of Washingtonia palms and the lush density of bamboo groves. You'll encounter towering ficuses, delicate ferns, exotic hibiscus, and the intriguing bird of paradise flower, Strelitzia, with its vibrant, crane-like blooms. Even a banana plant grows here, though its fruits are typically inedible, alongside sugarcane, Australian pine (Araucaria), avocado, and guava. A particularly fascinating aspect is the practice of manual pollination, where staff and interns use brushes to ensure the plants' reproductive cycles, compensating for the lack of natural insect pollinators in the enclosed space. This hands-on approach underscores the dedication required to maintain such a specialized ecosystem, highlighting the greenhouses' role in scientific study and plant acclimatization.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond the impressive botanical collection, the Greenhouses are home to heartwarming stories of dedication. One such tale involves Galina Ivanovna, an 82-year-old volunteer who, three times a week, meticulously cares for the extensive collection of cacti and succulents. Her passion is so great that she even donated many of her own treasured cacti to the Garden, embodying the spirit of community and love for nature that thrives here. The staff's aspirations extend to cultivating bumblebee colonies within the greenhouses to aid in natural pollination, a testament to their continuous efforts to enhance the environment and plant health. In recent times, the Botanical Garden as a whole has faced challenges, including issues with its irrigation system and the need for restoration. However, there are significant efforts underway, with plans for reconstruction that involve renovating sidewalks, installing lighting, and enhancing safety for visitors, ensuring its future as a cherished natural space. The garden was granted the status of a specially protected natural area in 2025, further emphasizing its critical ecological importance to Kyrgyzstan.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, the Greenhouses offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore a microcosm of global flora within Bishkek. The experience is designed to be immersive and educational, allowing visitors to witness rare and exotic plants thriving far from their native habitats. It's a place for quiet contemplation, offering a serene contrast to the urban environment. While the wider Botanical Garden is perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or enjoying a picnic, the greenhouses provide a focused, intimate encounter with botanical wonders. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the entire garden is particularly vibrant, but the constant climate within the greenhouses ensures a captivating experience year-round. Chatting with the knowledgeable staff can offer deeper insights into the unique plant species and ongoing research. It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, aspiring botanists, or anyone seeking a peaceful and enriching experience amidst the extraordinary beauty of the plant kingdom.