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.