Env Exp Biol (2010) 8: 75–80

First results of ex situ conservation of endangered wild plants of Latvia in the National Botanic Garden

Abstract

In 1981, the National Botanic Garden of Latvia began the ex situ conservation of rare and endangered native plants. About 70 species of endangered plants of Latvia are now successfully grown in vitro. The aim of this study was to determine suitable conditions for ex situ cultivation in the territory of the National Botanic Garden, where four artificial habitats (dune and meadow, deciduous tree forest, humid bank and ditch with spring water) were created or used for growth and survival experiments with individuals of 23 endangered wild plant species. Twenty of the species successfully adapted to the implemented growth conditions. Alyssum gmelini, Dianthus arenarius, Helianthemum nummularium showed good adaptation in dry and sunny conditions of artificial dune. Galium schultesii, Pulmonaria angustifolia, Scrophularia umbrosa showed good adaptation to fertile soil and shady conditions of deciduous forest. The short-lived species as Spergularia salina and Tripolium vulgare were identified as difficult species for cultivation.