Micropropagation of Rhododendron chapmanii

Abstract

Shoot tips excised from Chapman's rhododendron ( Rhododendron chapmanii A. Gray) were surface sterilized, the terminal portions were removed (decapitated) and the shoots placed in liquid Woody Plant Medium (WPM) supplemented with 8 μM (1.6 ppm) 6(γ, γ-dimethylallylamino)-purine (2iP). Within 2 to 3 months axillary shoots excised, decapitated and cultured on agarsolidified WPM supplemented with 49 μM (10 ppm) 2iP. Multiple shoot formation consisting of adventitious and axillary shoots was observed within 4 to 6 months. These shoots were transferred to WPM supplemented With 8 μM (1.6 ppm) 2iP and cultured under reduced light levels to stimulate shoot elongation. Shoots ≥ 10 mm (0.4 in.) were harvested (microcuttings) and rooted using non- in vitro procedures. Enhancement of axillary shoot multiplication was achieved by culturing decapitated axillary shoots under reduced light levels in a horizontal position on WPM supplemented WIth 8 μM (1.6 ppm) 2iP.