In vitro tissue culture methods for ornamental propagation and new varietal development

The innovation of plant cell and tissue culture (TC) techniques has supported plant propagation programs and allowed for the development of new ornamental varieties. Van Belle Nursery is interested in adapting TC as a method of cultivation but lack the technical expertise and understanding of infrastructure requirements to establish an on-site TC program. Specifically, they are interested in developing TC methods for two economically important varieties. In partnership with Van Belle, the designated intern will establish the following techniques in the chosen varieties: (1) sterile propagation of plants from shoot-tip culture, allowing for the exportation of product to the United States, (2) a method for shoot regeneration from plant cells, avoiding the need for propagation from seed and (3) the development of novel varieties using chemical mutagenesis. Output from these techniques will be used to determine technical feasibility for a commercially scaled TC operation at Van Belle.

Faculty Supervisor:

Paul Adams;Mathias Schuetz

Student:

Partner:

Van Belle Youngplants Inc.

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture and Food; Biotechnology; Other

University:

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Program: