In August, a group of Czech botanists set out on an inspiring journey through Slovakia and Hungary. Their aim was not only to explore local botanical gardens, but also to share expertise and seek new opportunities for collaboration. The study trip brought together representatives of the Union of Botanical Gardens of the Czech Republic, who visited several important institutions. The delegation was led by RNDr. Pavel Sekerka, Ph.D., President of the Union, and among the participants was the Head of the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences Botanical Garden, Ing. Anežka Daníčková.
The program featured visits to the Botanical Garden of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, as well as two Hungarian botanical gardens – the National Botanical Garden in Vácrátót and the Füvészkert in Budapest. At each site, the group was warmly welcomed and given the opportunity to explore the facilities and day-to-day operations of the institutions.
Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from botanical issues and legislation related to the Index Seminum to the management and organization of botanical gardens. The program was further enriched by professional lectures, held both directly in the gardens and during evening sessions. Participants were able to see various approaches to collection management and to the presentation of plant collections to the public.
The entire visit proved to be highly beneficial for all involved. Beyond the exchange of expertise, it also strengthened international cooperation and created a platform for future joint projects. Reciprocal visits of foreign colleagues to the Czech Republic are already being planned. Such international exchanges of experience are invaluable for the development and progress of botanical gardens.
