Strategies for successful acclimatization and hardening of in vitro regenerated plants: Challenges and innovations in micropropagation techniques

Abstract

The micropropagation technique serves as an effective approach for conserving and propagating numerous plant species. Challenges to its success encompass explant selection, media composition, hormone concentration, microbial contamination, incubation conditions, and photoperiod. Beyond these factors, the veracity of tissue culture hinges on successful acclimatization of in vitro regenerated plants to their natural surroundings. Tissue culture-derived plants exhibit characteristic variations like altered nutrition, reduced cuticular wax, non-functional stomata, etc. During transition to natural conditions, a significant portion of micropropagated plants face survival challenges. Studies propose gradual acclimatization processes for smooth adjustment. Ex vitro rooting is advocated for economic, simple, and enhanced survival outcomes. Hydroponics, photoautotrophic acclimatization, and biotization strategies also improve post-transplantation survival. This study evaluates diverse strategies for achieving successful acclimatization of in vitro regenerated plants.