In vitro propagation of European larch (Larix decidua Mill.)

Abstract

Methods of in vitro propagation of Larix decidua are described in the paper. The influence of explant source, tree age, genotype, composition of nutrient media and phytohormones on in vitro propagation of Larix decidua has been investigated. Needles, isolated vegetative buds, shoot tips, zygotic embryos and cotyledons were used as initial explants. Axillary and adventitious bud cultures were used for fast in vitro shoot multiplication. Root induction was stimulated on low salt medium supplemented with auxin. After rooting and hardening off, micropropagated trees were planted in experimental plots. The growth of micropropagated trees was comparable with the height and diameter growth of trees originated from seeds.