Somatic embryogenesis in vitro from adult plants of pelargonium: influence of genotype and basal medium

摘要

To propagate cultivars of Pelargonium via somatic embryogenesis on a large scale it is necessary to use explants after testing the genotypes for quality. The effect of genotype on somatic embryogenesis from petiole segments was investigated in 23 zonal hybrid Pelargonium cultivars and 12 P. peltatum cultivars, and compared with that observed in P. grandiflorum cv. Madame Layal. Of the investigated cultivars, 8 formed somatic embryos (best response of 0.5 embryos/explant), but to a lesser extent than that observed in Madame Layal (22.5 embryos/explant). The effect of culture media on somatic embryogenesis was investigated using 2 zonal hybrid cultivars; 7 basal media were compared. Results were compared with those obtained for the well responding Madame Layal. Genotype had a stronger influence on somatic embryogenesis than medium. None of the media improved somatic embryogenesis from petiole segments of zonal hybrids. In Madame Layal, the response was dependent on basal medium. This was partiallyrelated to the B contents of the media. The consequences for establishing embryogenic cultures and the possibilities of improving the embryogenic response are discussed.