Embryo culture as a tool in intergeneric hybridization of Salicaceae (Salix alba X Populus caspica)

This research was carried out using biotechnology methods in order to investigate possibility of intergeneric hybridization to achieve heterosis in Salicaceae. Crossing was performed between poplar and willow genera with Salix alba x Populus caspica species on ovaries isolated of unwanted pollens. Embryo rescue method was used for germinating 10, 14, 21 days old hybrid embryos by transferring to MS medium. Then 3 centimeter plantlets were transferred to sterilized soil for acclimatization stage in phytotron. Results showed successful intergeneric hybridization and there was significant differences between cultured embryos of different ages (p=0.05). The highest (69%) and the lowest (51%) percentage of germination observed in 14 and 21 days periods after pollination respectively. Comparing length and width of ovary and embryo and also number of embryos between S. alba x P. caspica and Salix alba x Salix alba crosses indicated significant differences for length and width of ovary and embryo but no significant differences for number of embryos. Morphological variation in seed shape was observed among the progeny of the two crosses.