In vitro conservation of cherry rootstock Gisela 5

Abstract

The paper presents results of the application of 'Cold Storage' (CS), a very simple in vitro technique preservation of cultures at +5 degrees C in total darkness. A protocol has been developed for in vitro preservation of cherry rootstock Gisela 5 based on this method. Upon the establishment of aseptic culture, the studied genotype was propagated in vitro on MS medium supplemented with BA at a concentration of 3.37 mg/L. During CS, in vitro shoots were maintained at +5 degrees C in cold chamber for 3, 6 and 9 months in total darkness. Seven days after their respective period of time, the shoots were examined for viability for further propagation, together with their multiplication index and length of axial and lateral shoots. Three months after CS, shoots showed high shoot viability (55%), which however declined considerably after 6 and 9 months (15% and 0%, resp.). After 9 months of preservation under cold conditions, shoots showed severe signs of necrosis (55%). The transfer of cultures from the cold chamber to standard growth conditions led to prompt development and greening of leaves which regained morphology and capacity for multiplication and rooting.