Growth of Immature Peach Embryos in Response to Media, Ovule Support Method, and Ovule Perforation

Abstract

The influence of medium formulation, methods of ovule support, and ovule perforation on in vitro growth of immature peach [ Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] embryos (4.0 to 8.7 mm long) was investigated. Maximum embryo dry weights were attained with vermiculite support, ovule perforation, and 10% sucrose in the medium. At high sucrose levels, all three tested media (Monnier, modified Murashige and Skoog, or modified Stewart and Hsu medium) performed similarly. Adding IAA and kinetin to culture media did not enhance embryo growth. Using the vermiculite support system, small embryos of early maturing peach cultivars, obtained at fruit maturity, were cultured successfully and used as maternal parents in breeding programs. Chemical name used: indole acetic acid (IAA).