THE BLUEBERRY RHIZOME: IN VITRO CULTURE

Abstract

The successful in vitro culturing of blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait). rhizome apices is reported. A variation in sensitivity to short light exposures is noted that may be seasonal. In spring the organ appears less light sensitive. Later no exposure is tolerated without response. In dark culture of spring-gathered rhizomes, the diageotropic habit continues with the evolution of scale leaves separated by long internodes. Exposure to a 16-hour light/dark cycle, however, causes the apex to elevate and induces changes in habit that are manifested by the shortening of the internode and the expansion of the scales into green leaves. Elongating growth essentially ceases. Histological studies suggest that a disruption of the apex follows light exposure. Necrotic cells appear behind the dome, and the meristem decreases in size and changes shape even as it rapidly evolves foliar initials. Apparently the meristem rapidly loses function.The method is offered as a technique suitable for the controlled study of rhizome physiology and development.