When choosing varieties to grow, we are usually guided by the characteristics of the variety: suitability for the climate, fruit size and yield, taste, and resistance to diseases and pests. The breeder of the variety and the country of origin often remain unknown, or are only a matter of interest for horticulture enthusiasts and scientists. Today, as all our attention is focused on Ukraine, we are thinking about the people of this country and their contribution to us in the field of horticulture as well.

Following the start of Russia's war of aggression against democratic Ukraine, we shared on our social media channels the legacy left by Ukrainian breeders – varieties of apple, pear, sweet cherry, plum, grape, blackcurrant, and other plant species that grow not only at the Institute of Horticulture, but possibly in almost every Latvian orchard. We are proud of the achievements of our Ukrainian colleagues!