In vitro storage of Eucalyptus grandis germplasm under minimal growth conditions

Slow growth-storage, for up to 10 months, has been achieved for Eucalyptus grandis shoot cultures by either the addition of 10 mg l(-1) abscisic acid to the growth medium or by the halving of nutrient supply (half MS) and rem oval of exogenous plant growth regulators. Reduction of light intensity or the addition of mannitol to the media were less effective in reducing growt h rate. Isolated in vitro axillary buds encapsulated in calcium alginate an d stored under low temperature and low light intensities survived for up to 3 months without loss in viability. Storage of such encapsulated fresh axi llary buds at higher temperature resulted in a loss in viability. These met hods have immediate applications to forestry breeding and clonal programs.