In vitro slow growth storage of Senecio macrophyllus shoots

Abstract

Advances in biotechnology, especially in the field of in vitro culture techniques, led to the development of procedures that can be used as an excellent tool in plant conservation. The present study describes in vitro conservation of Senecio macrophyllus by slow-growth storage. Various sugar treatments, concentration of abscisic acid (ABA), light intensity and type of containers were tested. Viability and proliferation rate of shoots were evaluated 4 weeks after regrowth. The results obtained showed that polycarbonate boxes were a better type of containers for storage of S. macrophyllus shoots than glass vessels. Light negatively affected culture viability, multiplication rate and rooting response. In the case of Seneciomacrophyllus the addition of ABA to storage medium stimulated survival and higher proliferation of shoots during regrowth in optimal conditions in comparison to shoots stored on medium without ABA. Shoots of S. macrophyllus were effectively stored for 6 months. All rooted shoots survived adaptation to field conditions and were able to flower in the second year after acclimatization.