Do you have a favorite plant—one connected to a special story?

For me, all new and rare plant species are special—they give me the chance to explore the unknown. I’m especially fond of plants that we’ve managed to successfully adapt and grow in our conditions; each of these cases feels like a small victory.

How did you come to study and acclimatize fruit plants?

After graduating from Uman National University of Horticulture, I joined the department of fruit plant acclimatization, which focused on adapting and studying new and underutilized species. I can’t say I was immediately passionate about the topic, but over time these plants truly captured my interest. I became increasingly drawn to working with living collections, observing how plants take root in new conditions, and discovering ways to unlock their potential.

Is there a plant that you think is underestimated by Ukrainians—but deserves to be a star?

Yes, absolutely. Many fascinating species remain underestimated and could become true «stars» of Ukrainian gardens—for example, elderberry, chokeberry, quince, and cornelian cherry. They are not only beautiful but also highly beneficial, rich in bioactive compounds, and could form the basis for new directions in horticulture and fruit processing. Their fruits can be used to make excellent drinks, jams, syrups, and candied fruit, and their potential is still far from fully realized in both cultivation and processing.

Do you have a personal «field ritual» or a small professional habit—something you always bring with you when working with plants?

I wouldn’t call it a ritual, but I always carry pruning shears with me. When you step onto an experimental plot, there’s always something that needs trimming, tidying up, or cutting for a herbarium specimen.

What has been the most interesting or unexpected moment in your work with plants?

There was a case involving a persimmon tree that was scheduled for removal because it hadn’t passed a breeding evaluation. I didn’t manage to remove it in time, and the following year the plant bloomed and bore fruit. Today, it is one of the new promising persimmon varieties, and watching its development has been incredibly exciting. Some of the most fascinating moments happen when, among seedlings of various plants, you discover real «gems»—plants with unexpected shapes, colors, or fruit flavors. It’s always a small discovery to spot the potential of a new variety at such an early stage of its development.