F. Berger et al., AN IMPROVED SURFACE DISINFECTION METHOD FOR SHOOT EXPLANTS FROM IRIS RHIZOMES INFECTED WITH BACTERIAL SOFT-ROT (ERWINIA-CAROTOVORA SUBSP CAROTOVORA), Journal of Horticultural Science, 69(3), 1994, pp. 491-494
The standard method (protocol 1) for disinfecting shoot explants used
for initiation of plant tissue cultures failed when Iris rhizomes were
infected with bacterial soft rot (Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovor
a). Two new disinfection protocols were therefore developed. They invo
lved keeping stock plants without irrigation for two months prior to e
xcision of explants; alcohol disinfection of the explants prior to exc
ision from the rhizome; dipping of the explant in alcohol immediately
after excision; soaking in 1% (v/v) sodium hypochlorite (protocol 2) o
r saturated calcium hypochlorite (protocol 3); and soaking in mercuric
chloride. With protocols 2 and 3 up to 90% and 62% respectively of ex
plants taken from infected Iris rhizomes showing soft-rot symptoms rem
ained free of detectable microorganisms in vitro.