In this article it is noted that N.I. Vavilov, a gifted Russian geneticist, botanist and breeder, made an invaluable contribution to the development of world science of plant genetic resources. These advances provide valuable tools for dealing with the challenges of the modern world and make it possible to preserve and utilize the wealth of genetic potential of the plant world for the benefit of humanity. A very important aspect of working with genetic resources is the creation and maintenance of collections that serve as sources of valuable genes, alleles and polygenic systems. These collections are unique ranges of plant seeds, tissues and DNA collected from around the world. They serve as the basis for breeding work, making it possible to improve existing varieties and create new, more stable and productive ones.