The goals of the German Gene Bank for Ornamentals are:

1. The collection and conservation of genetic resources in a scientific, long-term, sustainable and cost-effective manner, with a particular focus on
   • German varieties,
   • varieties with a socio, cultural, local or historical connection to Germany,
   • varieties and species with important horticultural traits for research and breeding purposes,
   • varieties not covered by property rights.
2. The highest priority is verifying the authenticity of the varieties and species.
   The collection and conservation covers, in particular, varieties and species that are
   • endangered,
   • of commercial importance and
   • of particular importance to plant breeding.
3. The promotion of the use of genetic resources by means of characterisation, evaluation, national inventories and documentation, as well as the provision of propagation material and associated freely available information.
4. The use of synergies and mutual support regarding all questions relating to conservation and collection management.
5. Mutual support and collaboration in seminars, further education events, public relations work and projects.
6. Supporting the implementation of the National Programme for Plant Genetic Resources for the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources of agricultural and horticultural Crops in Germany as part of the German Gene Bank for Ornamentals.
7. Supporting international collaboration and schemes as well as agreements relating to biodiversity, for example, the Convention on Biological Diversity and the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.