In vitro multiplication of Phoenix dactylifera (L)

摘要

A method of microcloning via somatic embryogenesis was established in datepalm (Phoenix dactylifera L) cultivars. The method has potential for commercial application. Embryogenic cultures were initiated from soft primordial tissues of 2-3-year-old female suckers. The system was optimized first for the genotype 'Sayar' and then its applicability was tested to other genotypes. A method of pre-acclimation using pre-acclimation chambers has been devised, which improved hardening survival greatly. More than 80 clones obtained from the genotype 'Sayar' have been shifted to field for agronomic evaluation.