As the demand for sustainable and energy-efficient agriculture continues to grow, even botanical gardens are embracing technological upgrades to meet the needs of both plants and visitors. The regional botanical garden in Volzhsky is undergoing a significant transformation as part of a three-year reconstruction project, which includes the replacement of old greenhouse coverings and the construction of a new boiler system.
These upgrades are critical to creating a comfortable environment for the garden’s plant collections while reducing energy consumption. With plans for expanded indoor and outdoor displays, the botanical garden will become a vibrant year-round attraction for visitors and a hub of botanical research.
Key Renovations: New Greenhouse Covers and Boiler System
The core of the renovation focuses on replacing the greenhouse coverings and overhauling the garden’s outdated heating system. The existing greenhouses, built in the 1960s and 1970s, were originally designed for the city’s landscaping needs, not for specialized botanical collections. Over time, the demands on these facilities have increased, making modernization essential.
The botanical garden has begun replacing its old glass greenhouse roofs with energy-efficient polycarbonate covers. Polycarbonate not only provides better insulation but also allows for more diffused sunlight, which is crucial for plant growth. According to recent data, polycarbonate can reduce heating costs by up to 30% compared to traditional glass, making it a more sustainable choice for long-term operations.
The outdated boiler system, built in 1978, has also been a major constraint. It can only heat water to 60°C, which is insufficient to properly heat the greenhouses, especially during colder months. The new modular boiler system, currently under construction, will provide more efficient heating, allowing for higher water temperatures and better climate control inside the greenhouses. This will ensure optimal growing conditions for the garden’s plant collections, which range from tropical species to hardy outdoor varieties.
The new boiler is also expected to reduce gas consumption, thanks to modern energy-efficient technologies. Anton Tkach, deputy director of the construction company overseeing the project, highlighted that the modular design allows for quick installation and lower operating costs, further contributing to the garden’s sustainability goals.
Enhancing Plant Collections and Visitor Experience
Alongside the structural upgrades, the garden is expanding its plant collections and enhancing visitor experiences. The new greenhouse spaces will house a wide variety of plants, including a citrus garden and a tropical rainforest exhibit, featuring species that can reach heights of up to six meters.
Additionally, the botanical garden will continue its annual chrysanthemum festival, a local favorite, and plans to host new seasonal events once the renovations are complete. Outdoor collections are also being expanded, with new walking paths and viewing areas for visitors to explore the garden’s growing collection of 7,000 plant species.
The garden welcomed 23,000 visitors last year, and with these improvements, officials project that attendance could rise to 80,000 annually by 2028. The ability to offer year-round tours, including winter greenhouse visits, is expected to be a major draw.
The ongoing renovations at the botanical garden in Volzhsky are a testament to the importance of modernizing agricultural infrastructure for both sustainability and plant health. By upgrading greenhouse covers and implementing a new, more efficient heating system, the garden is setting a precedent for other agricultural and horticultural operations. These improvements not only ensure better growing conditions but also enhance the visitor experience, making the garden a year-round destination for plant enthusiasts and researchers alike.
