IN-VITRO MUTATION BREEDING OF CHRYSANTHEM UM (DENDRATHEMA-GRANDIFOLIATZVELEV) CV PINK REPIN

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.