To the staff
of the State Nikita Botanical Gardens
I sincerely greet the staff of the celebrated scientific and research institution of the state on the occasion of the 200th jubilee.
Nikita Botanical Gardens was founded in 1812 by Christian Steven, called “the Nestor of Russian botanists”. It turned into a unique green pearl of Crimea and one of the most popular places for rest and excursions only due to intense, relentless and purposeful work of many generations of its employees.
Only after the first years after foundation more then 4500 kinds of plants were gathered, the total number of planted trees reached approximately 15 thousands, the fullest pomological collection was created. Its rapid development was more than once interrupted by hard times, especially military one, but every time the institution renewed its activity lifting its achievements at an even higher level.
Today, the State Nikita Botanical Gardens is a National scientific center possessing a unique collection from all continents. It is a real museum of living plants whose collection includes more than 30 000 species, hybrids and plant cultivars from all over the world. According to experts, it belongs to one of the most famous botanical institutions in the world and possesses one of the biggest collections of genofond of valuable plants. During two hundred years of existence, more than 400 kinds of new plants were cultivated for the first time and approximately 760 kinds of fruit, ornamental and other types of cultivated plants were breeded and transferred to national economy.
There is no doubt that such an honorable jubilee will be another step to new heights in the continuous scientific and creative growth.
On this day I wish you peace, welfare, and new fruitful achievements for the good of people and in the name of Ukraine.
Volodymyr LYTVYN