Establishment of the First Orchidarium in Serbia: Strategy for Sustainable Management of Native Orchid Genetic Resources

Abstract

Botanical gardens serve as vital centers for ex situ conservation, maintaining diverse plant species under controlled conditions. Terrestrial orchids, despite their wide diversity and distribution, often occur in small and declining populations, making their conservation increasingly urgent. This study aimed to examine the potential for establishing the first specialized orchidarium in Serbia, focusing on the native orchid species of the Fruška Gora region. A SWOT analysis, combined with site assessment data, was employed to identify key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, informing the development of a functional zoning plan. The results indicate that such an orchidarium would offer a threefold benefit: strengthening ex situ conservation, advancing scientific research and environmental education, and promoting sustainable tourism. The proposed design consists of eight distinct zones, three of which reflect natural habitats of selected orchid species. The planned integration of a seed gene bank in the central zone, along with living plant collections and a nearby in vitro culture laboratory, establishes a comprehensive framework for the sustainable management of orchid genetic resources in the region, forming a foundation for future research and preservation.

1. Introduction

Human existence depends on the use of natural resources, which are essential for economic stability and sustainable development [1]. However, their uncontrolled exploitation can lead to irreversible damage to plant populations and disrupt ecosystem functioning. According to Ruiz Serrano et al. [2], traditional economic models frequently fail to account for sustainable use and optimal resource management, especially in the context of environmental degradation and resource depletion. This highlights the critical need for the development of conservation strategies aimed at preserving ecosystems and biodiversity.

Botanical gardens are specialized institutions where diverse plant species are cultivated and maintained within controlled environments, thereby playing a central role in ex situ conservation [3]. These gardens serve multiple functions, including scientific research, environmental conservation, horticultural and botanical education, recreation, and enhancement of public urban landscapes [4]. Beyond these purposes, botanical gardens significantly contribute to the development of green spaces in urban areas, promote tourism, generate economic benefits, and improve the overall well-being of local populations. Botanical gardens are globally recognized as essential centers for conservation and species restoration due to their extensive collections and expertise in plant taxonomy and horticulture [5], with a notable role in orchid conservation and reintroduction [6]. In fact, botanical gardens served as pioneering institutions in orchid research, cultivation, and classification [7].

The Orchidaceae family represents the largest group among flowering plants, encompassing approximately 850 genera and 25,000 species, which accounts for roughly 10% of all angiosperms [8]. Beyond its extensive species diversity, this family is notable for its widespread global distribution, classifying it as cosmopolitan. Terrestrial orchids constitute a distinct group within Orchidaceae, with life cycles occurring on and beneath the soil surface, comprising approximately 4000 species. The Balkan Peninsula stands as one of the most significant centers of terrestrial orchid diversity in Europe, particularly in the Aegean region of Greece, while Serbia, with 72 recorded orchid species and subspecies, is considered an area of moderate orchid species richness [9,10,11]. In addition to their remarkable diversity, species within this group are highly ornamental, thrive in temperate climates, and thus hold substantial potential for horticultural applications and urban landscaping [12]. A wide diversity and distribution of orchid species do not necessarily correlate with large population sizes or long-term persistence within their natural habitats. Seaton et al. [13] highlight a significant decline in both the abundance and size of orchid populations. Further studies by Shefferson et al. [14] and Geppert et al. [15] identify urbanization, atmospheric nitrogen deposition, and climate change as primary drivers of these declines. Land-cover changes, particularly the conversion of natural habitats into agricultural lands and recreational areas, as well as their use for livestock grazing, are also significant contributing factors [16,17,18,19]. Consequently, many terrestrial orchids are now protected under national and international legislation and are listed on the IUCN Red List [20]. Therefore, effective conservation strategies must integrate in situ ecological and genetic research with the development of multifunctional ex situ collections, placing strong emphasis on scientific research and long-term conservation efforts.

According to Swarts and Dixon [21], orchid species are regarded as highly charismatic plants, with significant educational and conservation value. Their aesthetic appeal often elicits strong public interest, especially concerning rare or endangered species. Consequently, orchids cultivated in botanical gardens can serve as effective mediators between scientific research, public engagement, and conservation initiatives. Prominent ex situ institutions dedicated to orchid conservation and active research include the New York Botanical Garden [22], and the Royal Botanic Gardens, in Kew, London, UK [23], as well as the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida [24], which place orchids at the center of both research and exhibition efforts. Additionally, the National Orchid Garden, located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens [25], houses over 1500 orchid species—including 226 native species—and actively participates in orchid breeding, conservation, and reintroduction programs. Considering that Serbia can be regarded as an area of moderate orchid species richness, and that half of the country’s total orchid species have been recorded in the Fruška Gora region [26], the aim of this research was to develop the first orchidarium featuring native orchid species. This type of specialized botanical garden can become a key element in biodiversity conservation and the sustainable development of endangered species communities, while simultaneously providing education and inspiration to support natural resource preservation.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Natural Habitat Characteristics and Plant Material Selection

Fruška Gora is an isolated mountain range located mostly in the northern part of Serbia, within the autonomous province of Vojvodina, and geographically positioned between 45°00′ and 45°15′ north latitude and 16°37′ and 18°01′ east longitude (Figure 1). It stretches in an east–west direction between the Danube and Sava rivers, spanning approximately 80 km in length and up to 15 km in width, with the highest peak reaching 539 m. Owing to its exceptionally rich and unique biodiversity, a part of Fruška Gora is under special protection and has been designated as a national park.

Due to the remarkable variety of species and the high level of endangerment of terrestrial orchids on Fruška Gora Mountain [12], the selection of species to be represented in the orchidarium was primarily based on those native to this region. Their natural habitats include dry grasslands, forests, and forested slopes. Soil analysis conducted in previous studies revealed a predominantly neutral-to-slightly alkaline pH in the habitats of most species, while species associated with forest vegetation were found to prefer more acidic soil conditions [27]. Only one of the selected species is native to the slopes of Mount Kopaonik in southern Serbia, although it also occurs at lower altitudes. Considering that the selected species are protected and in order to avoid endangering existing populations, the collection of plant material from natural populations was carried out with the approval of the relevant authorities. A clear specification of the type of plant material to be collected (i.e., whole plants or specific tissues such as seeds or meristems) was defined prior to sampling. The species selected for this project as well as their natural environments’ characteristics are listed in

Table 1. List of selected species with associated natural environments.

Species	Vegetation Type			Soil Reaction	References
	Light Woodland	Meadow	Wet Meadow
Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz	+			Ac–N	[27,28]
Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich.	+			Ac	[27]
Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich.	+	+		Ac–N	[27,29]
Cephalanthera damasonium (Mill.) Druce	+			Ac–N	[29]
Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich.	+			Ac–N	[29]
Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch	+			Ac–SAl	[27]
Orchis mascula (L.) L. ssp. Signifera (Vest) Soó	+			Ac–SAl	[27]
Orchis purpurea Huds.	+	+		Ac–N	[27,29]
Orchis simia Lam.	+			SAc–SAl	[30]
Limodorum abortivum (L.) Sw.	+			Ac	[27,29]
Orchis militaris L.	+	+		N–SAl	[27]
Anacamptis laxiflora (Lam.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase			+	-	[26]
Epipactis microphylla (Ehrh.) Sw.	+			SAc–SAl	[27,29]
Epipactis palustris L. (Crantz)			+	SAc–SAl	[27]
Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser	+			N–Al	[31]
Cypripedium calcelous L.	+			N–Al	[32]
Neottia ovata (L.) Bluff & Fingerh.	+			SAc–SAl	[33]
Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich.		+		N–SAl	[27]
Neotinea tridentata (Scop.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase		+		N–SAl	[27]
Neotinea ustulata (L.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase		+		N–SAl	[27]
Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R. Br.		+		N–SAl	[27]
Gymnadenia odoratissima (L.) Rich.		+		N–SAl	[27]
Himantoglossum jankae Somlyay, Kreutz & Ovary	+	+		N–SAl	[27]
Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall.		+		N–SAl	[27]
Dactylorhiza incarnata (L.) Soó			+	SAc–Al	[34]
Ophrys sphegodes Mill.		+		N–SAl	[27]
Ophrys scolopax Cav.		+		N–SAl	[27]

“+” indicates that the species is associated with the environmental condition listed in the column; Ac—acidic, N—neutral, Al—alkaline, SAc—slightly acidic, SAl—slightly alkaline.

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2.2. SWOT Analysis of National Orchidarium Development

The methodological approach involved synthesizing the results of a SWOT analysis to identify the main drivers and constraints for the optimal design of an orchidarium. A SWOT analysis used for the development of a botanical garden was conducted in the studies by Qumsiyeh et al. [35] and Čurčić et al. [36]. The current SWOT analysis was based on field research, a literature review, and interviews with university staff. Strengths and weaknesses reflect the positive and negative aspects of internal factors, i.e., the advantages and disadvantages of a specialized botanical facility. External factors, characterized as opportunities and threats, indicate both the potential for breeding and cultivating new cultivars and the sustainability challenges faced by species that require specific environmental conditions for survival.

2.3. Project Site Description

The site selected for the establishment of the orchidarium is located within the campus of the University of Novi Sad, in Vojvodina, Serbia (Figure 1). The plot lies within the grounds of the Faculty of Agriculture (45°14′48.58″ N, 19°51′08.16″ E, approx. 80 m a.s.l.), situated in the southeastern part of Novi Sad, in the Liman district. The site is located less than half a kilometer from the left bank of the Danube River and lies approximately 15 km from Fruška Gora Mountain in a straight line.

The climatic conditions of the area are consistent with those of the Fruška Gora region, characterized by a moderately continental climate with pronounced seasonal variations in temperature, sunshine duration, and precipitation. The average annual air temperature is 11.4 °C, with January being the coldest month (average 0.2 °C) and July the warmest (average 21.9 °C). Annual precipitation amounts to 647.3 mm, which is below the national average [37]. The prevailing wind is the southeast wind (Košava), most frequent during autumn and winter; however, due to the specific characteristics of the study site, wind has no significant impact on this location. The soil is sandy, with a shallow humus layer up to 15 cm deep overlying alluvial sand. Soil pH ranges from neutral to slightly alkaline; the soil is moderately rich in phosphorus and potassium, and poor in nitrogen (Supplementary Materials, Table S1). To prepare the soil adequately for the establishment of an orchidarium, it is recommended to enrich it with green manure, which would contribute to increasing both the humus and nitrogen content.

The total area of the planned orchidarium is 2349 m². The site is bordered on three sides by existing structures, being adjacent to the shared building of the Faculty of Agriculture and the Faculty of Technology to the north, east, and south. The building’s height varies: on the eastern side, part of the structure features an elevated ground floor, while the two elongated wings of the building consist of a ground floor plus five additional stories. The western edge of the site is defined by a fence, along which a pedestrian walkway extends. The walkway connects a central transportation hub within the university area to the wider campus, thereby making the site highly accessible. Access to the site is possible from the faculty building and via the pedestrian walkway along the western boundary. For the purposes of this study, the site was considered devoid of existing vegetation. Accordingly, to ensure compatibility with orchids, all planting material was planned to be newly introduced.

The analyzed area is characterized by significant variations in solar exposure throughout the day and year, which significantly affect the microclimatic conditions and determine the selection of appropriate plant material. Based on a shadow analysis, it was observed that the central and northwestern zones of the area receive the most sunlight during most of the day (Figure 2). Shadows cast by the G+5 building located on the eastern and southeastern sides of the parcel predominantly extend into the eastern sections of the area, especially during the morning hours. In the afternoon (after 15:00), shadows cast by the west-oriented building cover the northwestern parts of the parcel. During the winter months, due to the low solar angle, shadows are prolonged and cover a larger portion of the area throughout the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon hours. Thus, in zones with prolonged shade, the planting of shade-tolerant species or those that can thrive under limited-light conditions should be planned, while the well-lit southern and western zones can be utilized for species that require full sun exposure.

2.4. Concept Development and Visualization Tools

The information on orchid species native to the Fruška Gora region, the results of the SWOT analysis, and the conducted site assessment provided the foundation for developing a functional zoning concept. The design aimed to recreate the natural habitat of selected species while supporting the realization of identified strengths and opportunities, ensuring ecological functionality, social benefit, and economic viability. The area is divided into eight distinct functional zones, through which the main communication routes are defined. These pedestrian routes connect four existing entrance points (two from the surrounding open space and two from the main building) with the designated zones, while also providing two vehicular routes for emergency access. The eight zones are as follows: 1—main entry zone, 2—buffer zone, 3—orchid meadow garden, 4—orchid wetland garden, 5—orchid shadow grove, 6—research and learning hub, 7—orchid display garden, and 8—garden market pavilion (Figure 3).

The English landscape style is applied in the design. To achieve topographical dynamics and recreate the atmosphere of natural orchid habitats, the design includes a combination of flat and hilly terrain, as well as a water feature. Wood and stone are incorporated as structural and accent materials to complement the main resin-bound gravel walkway, which is designed to be fully accessible while enhancing the natural aesthetic.

Project visualizations were created using AutoCAD 2020 (version 23.1) for 2D drawings and Realtime Landscaping Architect 2023.02 (trial free version) for 3D modeling and rendering.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. SWOT Analysis

The conducted SWOT analysis demonstrates the exceptionally high potential of the specialized botanical garden—orchidarium—by revealing a significantly greater number of positive internal and external factors (strengths and opportunities) compared to negative ones (weaknesses and threats) (Figure 4).

According to Mounce et al. [38], botanical gardens play a central role in the ex situ conservation and research of global plant biodiversity, while Dunn [39] highlights their important contribution to the conservation of species essential for human use and well-being. The obtained results indicate that the establishment of an orchidarium presents numerous scientific and conservation benefits and opportunities. It enables the efficient propagation and preservation of orchid species through advanced tissue culture techniques, while also facilitating long-term seed storage that supports future research and conservation initiatives [40]. Moreover, the introduction of indigenous orchid species into controlled urban environments has the potential to significantly enhance local biodiversity. Serving as an ex situ conservation site, the orchidarium would house a diverse collection of orchid species, including those critically endangered in their natural habitats, thereby playing a vital role in the preservation of native plant biodiversity. In addition, it would provide a valuable platform for interdisciplinary research across fields such as ecology, conservation biology, genetics, plant breeding, and botany [40]. Furthermore, the orchidarium offers potential for the development of new cultivars through controlled breeding programs and provides a secure, regulated setting for conducting experimental research. It facilitates detailed observation and documentation of morphological traits, supporting gene bank and breeding objectives. The significance of this endeavor is underscored by a recent study by Masters et al. [41], which emphasizes that the potential for developing hybrids of terrestrial orchids for sustainable trade has not yet been fully exploited. Also, its proximity to a scientific research center allows for the incorporation of protected species into diverse fields of scientific inquiry. Orchids obtained by in vitro technology may be reintroduced into native habitats, contributing to ecological restoration and species recovery programs.

Additionally, the orchidarium offers opportunities for both formal and informal education, raising awareness among students, researchers, and the public, while enhancing public engagement in conservation through educational activities. Beyond its scientific and educational roles, the orchidarium may also serve as a unique attraction. In this way, this garden falls into the category of ‘useful gardens’, which, according to Błaszak et al. [42], promote all three aspects of visitor happiness: physical satisfaction (through pleasant smells, colors, and ambience), functional satisfaction (education or practical activities), and rational value assessment (raising awareness of its role in nature conservation and sustainability).

Among the main internal and external negative factors (i.e., weaknesses and threats) that stand out are the high initial investment and the requirement for a specific environment. The establishment of an orchidarium demands substantial financial resources, and the successful cultivation and maintenance of orchid species depend on the availability of trained horticulturists and researchers. Although this is considered a disadvantage, the proximity of the university and the presence of highly educated staff in relevant fields provide favorable conditions for effective facility management. While the establishment of a specialized garden requires high initial investment and a skilled workforce, orchids are known to attract substantial public support. According to Ramsay and Dixon [6], the Sainsbury Trust donated GBP 1 million to the Royal Botanic Gardens, in Kew, for the conservation of only one orchid species, Cypripedium calceolus, highlighting the potential for securing significant funding for orchid conservation initiatives.

In addition, the reliance of many orchid species on narrowly defined germination conditions and mycorrhizal symbiosis presents significant cultivation challenges. Orchid mycorrhizae play a crucial role in plant adaptability, beginning with the provision of carbon to the seed, which promotes germination and seedling development. In many species, this symbiotic relationship is maintained throughout the entire life cycle [43,44,45]. Moreover, species belonging to the orchid family are characterized by unique pollination systems that attract pollinators through highly complex deceptive strategies (generalized food deception, food-deceptive floral mimicry, brood-site imitation, shelter imitation, pseudoantagonism, rendezvous attraction, and sexual deception) [46]. Consequently, the absence of specific natural pollinators in an artificial environment may hinder the reproductive success of certain species. This particularly applies to species that do not produce nectar and are pollinated exclusively through pseudocopulation (e.g., species belonging to the genus Ophrys). Therefore, long-term cultivation is challenged by the need for highly controlled environmental conditions, including specific mycorrhizal associations and the presence of appropriate pollinators.

3.2. Conceptual Design of the Orchidarium

The proposed orchidarium design aims to translate observed natural principles into a functional spatial layout that supports both conservation and educational purposes. The eight functional zones defined within the analyzed area are structured into four distinct segments of the orchidarium (Figure 5). The first segment encompasses the areas separating the site from the surrounding open space, including the visitor entry zone and the vegetated western boundary (zones 1 and 2). The second segment consists of three gardens recreating habitats of native orchid species found in the Fruška Gora region (zones 3, 4, and 5). These gardens are positioned near the entry points, along the paths leading toward the central focal point of the space—the greenhouse facility. The circular structure is complemented by an adjacent orchid collection area, together forming the third, educational segment (zones 6 and 7). The fourth segment is designed to support the economic function of the orchidarium by facilitating the distribution of native orchid species for landscaping and ornamental use (zone 8). Throughout the orchidarium, the planting scheme supports a dynamic transition between open and enclosed views, with strategically open areas inviting social interaction, and secluded, enclosed spaces designed for quiet contemplation.

Although relatively small in scale compared to many botanical gardens [47], the proposed orchidarium is designed to offer visitors a diverse range of features, following the example of large botanical gardens that incorporate multiple thematic zones within a broader conceptual framework [48]. Patzelt and Anderson [49] point out that defining thematic areas is a crucial step in botanical garden planning, ensuring that each core objective (conservation, education, recreation, and research) is clearly represented within the spatial design. Villagra-Islas [50] identifies the “imitations of nature” strategy as a contemporary approach in botanical garden design, where plants are selected and positioned to recreate the diversity and distribution found in nature. Designing naturalistic environments in urban contexts presents a challenge: achieving adequate biodiversity levels while avoiding an overly managed or artificial appearance. According to Oudolf and Kingsbury [51], this can be achieved by planting species associated with specific habitats, complementing them with other species inhabiting the same environments, and allowing for spontaneity in plant growth and reproduction.

The planting scheme incorporates coniferous and deciduous species in the form of trees, shrubs, and low-growing vegetation. Plant species associated with native orchids in natural phytocoenoses are selected to support optimal growth and ecological compatibility [26]. This design is based on information gathered from field observations, as well as supported by relevant literature on the subject. Accompanying non-native ornamental species were selected to enhance the ambiance and promote greater biodiversity, supporting the overall design and aligning with the objectives of the botanical garden. An overview of plant species allocated to each zone is presented in

Table 2. Specification of plant species used in the orchidarium planting scheme.

Zone	Trees	Shrubs	Low Vegetation, Climbers, and Ground Cover Plants	Orchid Species
Main Entry Zone	Tilia cordata Mill.	Ruscus aculeatus L. Aucuba japonica Thunb. Hydrangea arborescens L. ‘Annabelle’	Lonicera caprifolium L.	Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rcih. Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch Orchis mascula (L.) L. ssp. signifera (Vest) Soó Limodorum abortivum (L.) Sw. Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich. Orchis purpurea Huds.
Buffer Zone	Carpinus betulus L. ‘Fastigiata’	Hydrangea paniculata Siebold Ruscus aculeatus L. Cornus alba L. ‘Elegantissima’	Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn Veronica chamaedrys L.	Anacamptis laxiflora (Lam.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase Epipactis microphylla (Ehrh) Sw. Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser Neottia ovata (L.) R. Br. Bluff & Fingerh
Orchid Meadow Garden	/	/	/	Ophrys sphegodes Mill. Ophrys scolopax Cav. Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R. Br. Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich. Neotinea tridentata (Scop.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase Neotinea ustulata (L.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase Gymnadenia odoratissima (L.) Rich. Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall. Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich. Orchis purpurea Huds. Orchis militaris L. Himantoglossum jankae Somlyay, Kreutz & Ovary Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch. Orchis mascula (L.) L. ssp. signifera (Vest) Soó Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz Epipactis microphyilla (Ehrh) Sw.
Orchid Wetland Garden	Pinus nigra L. Picea glauca (Moench) Voss ‘Rainbow’s End’	Cornus alba L. ‘Elegantissima’ Pinus mugo Turra Ligustrum vulgare L. Hibiscus syriacus L.	Carex riparia Curtis Equisetum arvense L. Lysimachia nummularia L. Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth	Dactylorhiza incarnata (L.) Soó Epipactis palustris L. (Crantz) Anacamptis laxiflora (Lam.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase
Orchid Shadow Grove	Pinus nigra L. Tilia tomentosa Moench.	Pinus mugo Turra Juniperus communis L. Deutzia scabra Thunb. Aucuba japonica Thunb. Hydrangea arborescens L. ‘Annabelle’ Cornus alba L. ‘Variegata’ Ligustrum vulgare L.	Mahonia aquifolium (Pursh) Nutt. Hosta undulata L.H.Bailey Hosta ventricosa Stearn Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn Rhododendron impeditum Balf.f. & W.W.Sm. Rhododendron ponticum L.	Orchis mascula (L.) L. ssp. signifera (Vest) Soó Cephalanthera damasonium (Mill.) Druce Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. Orchis simia Lam. Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser
Research and Learning Hub	Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A. Murray bis) Parl. ‘Ellwood’s Empire’	Pinus mugo Turra Ruscus aculeatus L. Hibiscus syriacus L.	Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn Veronica chamaedrys L.	Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz Epipactis atrorubens (Hoffm.) Besser Orchis simia Lam. Limodorum abortivum (L.) Sw. Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich. Orchis purpurea Huds. Orchis militaris L.
Orchid Display Garden	Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A.Murray bis) Parl. ‘Ellwood’s Empire’ Picea glauca (Moench) Voss ‘Rainbow’s End’ Cornus florida L. Prunus fruticosa Pall. ‘Globosa’ Robinia hispida L.	Juniperus communis L. Deutzia scabra Thunb.	Salvia pratensis L. Festuca sulcata L. Lysimachia nummularia L. Aegopodium podagraria L. Lavandula angustifolia Mill.	Ophrys sphegodes Mill. Ophrys scolopax Cav. Gymnadenia conopsea (L.) R. Br. Neotinea ustulata (L.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich. Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall. Platanthera bifolia (L.) Rich. Himantoglossum jankae Somlyay, Kreutz & Ovary Orchis purpurea Huds. Orchis militaris L. Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz
Garden Market Pavilion	Pinus nigra L. Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. ‘Pissardii Nigra’	Juniperus communis L. Ligustrum vulgare L.	Lysimachia nummularia L. Potentilla cinerea Chaix ex Vill.	Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich. Neotinea ustulata (L.) R.M. Bateman, Pridgeon & M.W. Chase Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall

.

The overall design concept is presented through a 3D simulation in Supplementary Video S1.

3.2.1. Perimeter Design: Entry and Buffering Elements

The enclosed character of the selected site allowed for the creation of a space sheltered from strong winds and excessive noise. However, with one side remaining open, the layout required the introduction of plant species to provide effective visual screening, a common practice in landscape design [52]. The emphasis was placed on blocking outward views from within the site to minimize the perception of surrounding urban elements. The use of the fastigiate form of Carpinus betulus L., in combination with the shrubby forms of Hydrangea arborescens, Ruscus aculeatus, and Cornus alba, ensured effective visual enclosure. An imposing small-leaved linden tree was strategically placed above the main entrance zone, offering shade and a pleasant fragrance during its blooming phase. The decorative and sweetly scented Lonicera climbs the free-standing walls of the information booth, while a composition of shrub forms further enriches the entry area. Orchids from the genera Cephalanthera, Orchis, Limodorum, and Platanthera are planned for the entrance area, with flowering periods extending throughout spring and summer (Figure 6). Interruptions in the vegetative barrier along the western edge of the plot clearly mark two entry points, while unobstructed views from these entrances toward zones 3 and 4 invite visitors to explore the features of the orchidarium. A planting bed of native orchids lines the path from the northwestern entrance, gradually immersing visitors in their rich diversity.

3.2.2. Design Reflections of Natural Orchid Habitats

Zones 3, 4, and 5 represent imitations of the natural habitats of selected orchid species, designed to gradually introduce visitors to the core of the botanical garden. The third zone, ‘Orchid Meadow Garden’, simulates a meadow environment, showcasing orchid species that typically grow in open grasslands (Figure 7). A side trail through this area was planned, passing between low, rounded hills, allowing visitors to experience the natural habitat of orchids that thrive in the sunny glades and meadows of Fruška Gora. The planting scheme includes 16 orchid species, several of which are naturally adapted to more than one habitat type. The flowering period within this zone begins in April and extends through October (Figure 6), indicating a carefully curated selection of species that ensures prolonged visual interest. The hill adjacent to the central, sixth zone is planned to be planted with species that are among the earliest to bloom in the vegetation season. Around the edges of the hills, species that bloom in April and May are planned, including Ophrys sphegodes (Figure 8a) and Ophrys scolopax—species characterized by their distinctive insect-like flower shapes that attract pollinators. Ascending toward the top of the hill, species with later flowering times will be arranged, with those blooming between July and October planned for the highest points.

Individual species are distinguished by their color and shapes. With thoughtfully designed lighting, their decorative qualities can be accentuated, ensuring visual appeal even during the evening hours. Depending on the desired visual effect, certain species are repeated in multiple locations. For example, Platanthera bifolia is distributed across all hills and placed prominently to be visible from both the ‘Orchid Display Garden’ and the ‘Garden Market Pavilion’, due to its elegant morphology, butterfly-like white blooms, and pronounced fragrance that enriches the sensory experience. The species are thoughtfully arranged regarding the plant height and terrain configuration. The composition is accentuated with the use of Himantoglossum jankae (Figure 8b), which can grow up to one meter in height. With its purple-white flowers with long spurs on the labellum (hence the name “lizard orchid”), swaying gently in the wind, the species is a distinctive indicator of natural habitats and a gentle reminder of the calm found in open meadows. This zone provides a restorative environment, additionally being equipped with wooden benches placed along the slopes’ edges (Figure 9).

Zones 4 and 5 provide a welcoming environment enriched with visually intriguing companion species, which, in combination with selected terrestrial orchids, stimulate the senses of sight, smell, and touch. This multisensory experience fosters physical sensory engagement, identified by Błaszak et al. [42] as one of the three fundamental components of specialized botanical gardens. The fourth zone, the ‘Orchid Wetland Garden’, is encountered when entering the orchidarium from the main entry. It will host species naturally found in weedy meadows and wetlands, including Anacamptis laxiflora, Dactylorhiza incarnata, and Epipactis palustris. These species flower in succession from April to August, with partially overlapping blooming periods, and are distinguished by a palette of purple, white, and pink hues. The design of this garden incorporates a water element to mimic a natural habitat—a pond with integrated small hills (Figure 10a). A wooden bridge extends across the pond, from which visitors can observe orchid species complemented by common wetland plants such as Calamagrostis epigejos, Carex riparia, Equisetum arvense, and Lysimachia nummularia. Winding through the southern edge of the zone, a secondary path bordered by woody and shrubby vegetation connects the main entrance zone to the ‘Orchid Shadow Grove’ (zone 5).

The ‘Orchid Shadow Grove’ is entered from the faculty building, at the southeastern side of the plot (Figure 10b). Given the extended duration of shade throughout the day, this zone features shade-tolerant species native to woodland environments. Wooden benches are integrated into the hilly terrain, which is planted with Pinus mugo and various orchid species. Among them, Epipactis atrorubens, blooming in dark red to purple hues from June to July, stands out for its delightful, strong vanilla scent, especially on warm days. Another distinctive species, Orchis simia, is characterized by its floral morphology resembling a monkey’s body, which inspired its common name, the monkey orchid. From early-flowering Orchis mascula, whose blooms begin in April, to summer-flowering species such as Cephalanthera rubra, the garden offers visitors a continuous and immersive experience of a forest-like setting. The Pinus nigra create an environment suitable for the growth of understory vegetation, such as smooth Hydrangea arborescens shrubs that display showy white flower heads throughout the summer. They are accompanied by species from the genus Hosta, with Hosta ventricosa featuring broad, dark green, glossy leaves, and Hosta undulata, distinguished by its wavy-margined, variegated leaves, both providing ornamental value even in the absence of blooms. The shrubs Rhododendron impeditum, Rhododendron ponticum, and Pteridium aquilinum enhance the composition with added textural depth due to their distinctive morphological traits.

According to Dulić et al. [12], populations of Epipactis microphylla, Platanthera bifolia, Himantoglossum jankae, Limodorum abortivum, and Orchis mascula are extremely small, often consisting of only a few individuals. As noted by Lienert [53], such small populations are at increased risk of extinction due to various forms of genetic drift and inbreeding, which can negatively affect the fitness of individuals or entire populations and lead to genetic erosion. Establishing living collections of these species within the orchidarium would significantly contribute to their conservation by preserving genetic material under controlled conditions and reducing the risk of extinction in natural habitats.

An analysis of the flowering periods of the selected species reveals a notable overlap in bloom times among most of them (Figure 6). This indicates a potential for spontaneous hybridization, as well as facilitating planned hybridization efforts. Moreover, the flowering season is notably extended, with certain species beginning to bloom as early as April (Cephalanthera longifolia, Orchis mascula, Anacamptis laxiflora, Ophrys sphegodes, O. scolopax) and others flowering until October (Spiranthes spiralis, Figure 8c). This prolonged blooming period enhances the sustained visual appeal of the orchid botanical garden, which, according to Swarts and Dixon [21], attracts considerable public interest—particularly when it features rare or endangered species.

3.2.3. Bridging Nature, Science, and Education

Zone 6, the ‘Research and Learning Hub’, is designed to play a central role in the orchidarium, both in terms of its physical location and its intended function (Figure 11a). The zone features a greenhouse divided into three subzones: one for the display of tropical orchid species, a research area that houses a seed gene bank, and a small laboratory dedicated to seed studies. In addition, the zone includes an outdoor amphitheater intended for lectures and educational activities related to biodiversity, ecology, and biology. The amphitheater is enclosed by a pergola that extends over the greenhouse, symbolically and physically linking education with scientific practice. The space in front of the amphitheater is enhanced by a landscape composition featuring orchids from the genera Epipactis, Orchis, Limodorum, and Platanthera, offering a variety of flower colors and shapes, from early spring to late summer. The orchid species are complemented by other plants that naturally coexist with them in the wild, such as Veronica chamaedrys and Ruscus aculeatus.

The special significance of this zone lies in the establishment of a seed gene bank that will store seeds from all species represented in the living collections, seeds resulting from planned hybridizations within the orchidarium, as well as native orchid species from Serbia that are highly threatened in their natural habitats. Preliminary studies, including seed viability assessments and morphological analyses, will be conducted in the laboratory located within the facility, while in vitro germination experiments will take place in the tissue culture laboratory of the Faculty of Agriculture. According to Seaton et al. [54], ensuring adequate and sustainable genetic resources requires not only the maintenance of living collections but also the provision of seed storage for endangered species. The authors further emphasize that, although significant efforts are already underway, additional research is needed to better understand the effects of temperature and moisture content on seed longevity across a broad range of exotic species. The conceptual design of the orchidarium’s central section, together with the living collections in the garden and the nearby in vitro culture laboratory, reflects a comprehensive approach to developing a specialized garden that meets all the criteria for sustainable management of orchid genetic resources.

At the intersection of the ‘Orchid Shadow Grove’ and ‘Orchid Display Garden’ (zones 5 and 7, respectively), a prominent specimen of Tilia tomentosa is positioned. Beneath its canopy, Aucuba japonica forms the understory, characterized by deep green leaves variegated with golden hues and ornamental red berries that appear in autumn. The ‘Orchid Display Garden’, strategically positioned in the central area of the property, features a gently curved arrangement of vibrant flower beds (Figure 11b). This thoughtful design approach not only promotes a dynamic visual experience but also facilitates fluid transitions between different sections of the garden. It encourages visitors to navigate intuitively through the space, allowing for comprehensive exploration of the orchidarium’s exterior. Rich flower beds featuring orchids are harmoniously combined with Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Picea glauca, Juniperus communis, Deutzia scabra, Aegopodium podagraria, and other species, blending ecological compatibility with landscape design aesthetics. Each orchid species displayed in the garden is accompanied by a detailed description to support species identification and botanical education. The species present include Spiranthes spiralis, characterized by a vertical floral stem with spirally arranged white flowers; Anacamptis pyramidalis, with purple flowers forming a compact pyramidal shape (Figure 8d); Gymnadenia conopsea, known for its distinctive fragrance reminiscent of vanilla, cloves, or other notes (Figure 8e); Orchis militaris, whose flowers resemble a helmeted figure due to their unique structure (Figure 8f); and several others. The zone also features seating areas where visitors can spend time observing and studying native plants.

3.2.4. From Wild Habitats to Home Gardens

According to Shirsath [55], the global orchid market is valued at USD 302.5 million in 2024 (Cognitive Market Research) and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.00% from 2024 to 2031. The most prevalent orchid species on the market include Cattleya, Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum, Vanda, and Miltonia. The author emphasizes that the traditional orchid market includes the cultivation, production, and sale of orchid plants—both as cut flowers and potted plants—for ornamental and decorative purposes. Orchids are appreciated for their wide variety of colors, sizes, and shapes, making them popular choices for both indoor and outdoor decoration. In addition, their strong association with luxury and elegance increases their appeal in the high-end market [55]. However, in Serbia, the majority of commercially available orchids are epiphytic species that can only be cultivated indoors. This specialized orchid garden aims not only to support sustainable conservation management but also to establish a viable economic model. Notably, according to Dulić et al. [12], many native orchid species growing in the Fruška Gora region demonstrate significant potential as novel market products, underscoring their considerable commercial value. The authors highlight Spiranthes spiralis as a species with high potential, due to its distinctive inflorescence shape, flowering period in September, and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils with low nitrogen content. Additionally, Orchis purpurea, Orchis militaris, Himantoglossum jankae, Anacamptis pyramidalis, and Neotinea tridentata are also noted for their market potential, owing to their height, visually appealing inflorescences, and adaptability to a range of soil moisture conditions, from dry to moderately damp habitats. In line with this, a dedicated sales pavilion will be established within zone 8 of the garden (Figure 11a), offering both the commercial epiphytic and native terrestrial orchids. The proximity of the in vitro culture laboratory, located within the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Novi Sad, will facilitate the availability of these species for sale. This laboratory has successfully developed propagation protocols for Himantoglossum jankae and Spiranthes spiralis [56], Anacamptis pyramidalis and Gymnadenia conopsea [57], as well as for Orchis sphegodes [58]. Moreover, research has been successfully initiated on the asymbiotic seed germination of Limodorum abortivum and Epipactis helleborine [12]. In addition, the garden will provide a venue for organizing a flower festival—specifically dedicated to orchids—which, according to Vukajlović et al. [59], significantly enhances opportunities in both local and regional tourism. According to Kauth et al. [60], the limited presence of terrestrial orchids on the market can be attributed to three main factors: production is primarily oriented toward amateur growers who cultivate only a limited number of taxa; a general lack of awareness among producers regarding this group of orchids; and the complexity of seed-based propagation procedures. Additionally, Hinsley et al. [61] emphasize that rare orchid species are most often purchased online by hobbyists. The concept of this specialized orchidarium is designed to address these limitations at the regional level by bringing rare and native species closer to a broader spectrum of consumers. It aims to facilitate the transition and integration of native orchids into urban and home-gardening contexts. This initiative will position the orchidarium as the first and only location in Serbia where customers can purchase orchid species suitable for outdoor landscaping, while also participating in educational activities focused on sustainability principles and the ecological requirements of these species.

4. Conclusions

Based on the analysis of the obtained results, it can be concluded that the establishment of a specialized orchidarium would have a positive threefold impact: ex situ conservation through plant collections, a stimulating contribution to scientific research and education, and the enhancement of tourism. The conceptual design of the orchidarium’s seed gene bank, together with the living collections within the garden, reflects a comprehensive approach to developing a specialized facility that meets all criteria for the sustainable management of orchid genetic resources. These findings underscore the importance of interdisciplinary strategies in orchid conservation, integrating horticultural expertise, ecological research, and technological innovation. Moreover, the creation of plant communities in conditions closely resembling their natural habitats while maintaining high ornamental value provides mutual benefits—for the plants, by enhancing their survival in ex situ conditions, and for people, by incorporating visually engaging companion species alongside orchids, which are already renowned for their charm and aesthetic appeal. Such spatial organization promotes physical and sensory engagement for visitors, representing one of the defining characteristics of specialized botanical gardens.