Tissue Culture

In Vitro Plant Collections

In vitro (test tube) culture of plants at NCGR-Corvallis serves several important functions. This method provides an efficient means of preserving large numbers of plant clones in a small space. At temperatures just above freezing, these plants require little maintenance for a year or more. These miniature plants do not need water, fertilizer, or sprays. In vitro culture of plant meristems is also an important step in the elimination of viruses from infected plants.

Plants in this sterile environment, free of insects and most diseases, can be readily shipped to scientists throughout the world. Approximately 1500 growing plants are presently stored at 4 degrees Celcius. Storage life ranges from 1.5 to 4 years. Research is underway to optimize the growing media and environmental conditions for culturing the repository crops.

Links: NCGR in vitro research activities and publications Society for In Vitro Biology Web Site

Web Adapted Powerpoint Presentations: Shipping Procedures for Plant Tissue Cultures - by Barbara Reed, 5/2002 Tissue Culture Bags for Germplasm Storage - by Barbara Reed, 2/2004 Strategies for Producing and Maintaining Clean Cultures - by Barbara Reed, 2004.

In vitro pear trees growing in a heat-sealed plastic culture bag.

For more information please contact Barbara Reed

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