This study aimed to adapt and utilize in vitro mutagenesis technology
for genetic improvement of chrysanthemum. Pedicels were obtained from
immature floral buds of chrysanthemum cv. pink Repin, and sensitivity
to gamma radiation was determined. Pedicels were then irradiated at a
dose of 8 Gy of gamma-rays. The irradiated and non-irradiated control
pedicels were cultured under previously determined organogenesis cultu
re medium. Plants regenerated were grown in the greenhouse and the eva
luation was done during the flowering period. Forty six mutants for fl
ower colour were selected from the irradiated pedicels (colours: bronz
e, champagne, dark pink and pale pink), and another mutant showed vari
egated leaves. Each colour mutant developed inflorescences with a sing
le colour, indicating that the method is efficient for the obtention o
f periclinal or solid mutants, in chrysanthemum.