Overcoming The Germination Problems Of Crataegus azarolus L. Seeds By Using In Vitro Cultures

Abstract

The present study succeeded in overcoming of germination problems of Crataegus azarolus L. in vitro was successful . As the seeds need 2 – 3 year in soil to germinate, four different culture media were used in this study including MS (Murashige & Skoog medium) , NF (Nitrogen – Free medium) , WPM (Woody plant medium) and UM (Uchimyia & Murashige medium) . Six seeds treatments were used , these are intact seeds, seeds with removed sheath , embryos with cotyledons , embryos with single cotyledon , embryoes with half cotyledon and embryos . Murashige & Skoog (MS) solid medium free from growth regulators was the best in stimulating germination of seeds which reached 77% , 7 – 20 days in culture , and produced normal plantlets. After one month in culture the plantlet height reached 10 cm. involving 15 – 25 leaves . Weak and slow growth was obtained with NF and WPM media. Seeds failed to germinate on solid UM medium. This study pointed out an efficient method to get Crataegus azarolus seedlings from in vitro culture within one month compared with those seedlings produced by planting in nursery for 2 – 3 years and accompanied with stratification pre-sawing . Therefore this results overcoming problems of propagation of this woody species.