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Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite

Explore a stunning collection of rhododendrons at the Babite Nursery, the only specialized rhododendron nursery in the Baltics near Riga.

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Discover a unique collection of rhododendrons at the Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite, the only specialized nursery in the Baltic States. Founded in 1980, the nursery boasts a diverse assortment of wild species and cultivated varieties, set within a scenic pine forest near Riga.

A brief summary to Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite

Local tips

  • Visit during May and June for the most vibrant blooms.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the expansive grounds.
  • Check the nursery's website for special events or workshops.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Riga, take the train line 6501 from Riga-Pasazieru station to Babite. The train ride is approximately 15 minutes, with trains departing every 30 minutes and costing $1–2. Alternatively, take bus number 13 from Ķīpsala to Spilve, which operates hourly and costs $1. From the Babite train station or Spilve bus stop, follow local roads and 'Rododendri' signs to reach the nursery, approximately a 15-minute walk.

  • Taxi

    From Riga city center, a taxi to the Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite will take approximately 15 minutes, covering a distance of around 11 km. Taxi fares in Riga typically start at €2.99, with a per-kilometer charge of €1.19 and a per-minute charge of €0.24. Expect the ride to cost approximately €15-€20. Alternatively, a taxi from Riga Airport (RIX) to Spilve is around 25 km and costs $30 - $65.

  • Car

    If driving from Riga, take the A10 highway towards Jūrmala. Exit towards Babīte parish and continue on local roads following signs for Spilve. Once in Spilve, follow the 'Rododendri' signs to the nursery. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite

The Experimental and Breeding Nursery of Rhododendrons Babite, established in 1980, is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and garden lovers. As the only specialized rhododendron nursery in the Baltic States, it holds a unique position in the region's botanical landscape. The nursery was founded by Professor Rihards Kondratovičs, who dedicated 60 years to rhododendron research and breeding. Located in Spilve, near Riga, the nursery spans 11.8 hectares within a beautiful pine forest, providing an ideal environment for rhododendrons to flourish. The acidic soil, enriched with sphagnum peat moss, and the partial shade offered by the pines create perfect growing conditions. Visitors can explore an impressive open-air collection featuring 107 wild species and 371 cultivars from around the world. Many plants have reached impressive heights of 4–5 meters. The nursery plays a crucial role in introducing and selecting rhododendrons suitable for the Baltic climate. It has registered 146 outdoor rhododendron varieties with the Royal Horticultural Society in the UK. Beyond research, the nursery is committed to popularizing rhododendrons through publications, tours, seminars, and educational programs. A Japanese garden was opened in 2024. In 2019, a monument to Rihards Kondratovičs was unveiled. Visitors can stroll along a 1.5km paved road that winds through the nursery, with a typical visit lasting 1–1.5 hours. While the peak blooming season is in late May and early June, some species bloom as early as April, and the nursery offers year-round interest with its diverse collection of shrubs and trees.

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