Proliferation of Embryogenic Callus, Induction of Somatic Embryo and Plant Regeneration in Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)

Proliferation of embryogenic calli and production of healthy plants are the most powerful aspects of somatic embryogenesis. The aim of study was proliferation of embryogenic calli followed by regeneration and production of healthy plants in two carnation cultivars Nelson and Spirit. Proliferation of embryogenic calli was achieved in two cultivars of carnation. MS culture medium used for embryogenic callus formation was supplemented with 30 gl-1 sucrose, 2 mgl-1 2,4-D and 0.2 mgl-1 BA. Proliferation of embryogenic calli was observed on MS basal medium containing different concentrations (0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 mg1-1) of picloram. Maximum proliferation of calli was obtained in concentration of 0.5 mg1-1 picloram. Increasing the number of calli subcultutes, increased the rate of embryogenesis. Proliferated calli were transfered to hormone free MS medium containing 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 g1-1 mannitol. Maximum embryogenesis was obtained using
90 g1-1 mannitol. Cotyledonary somatic embryos were evoluted into plantlets when transferred in the half-strength MS medium without growth regulators. Plantlets were also continued to grow under greenhouse condition