Effects of 24 Epibrassinolide on In Vitro Micropropagation of Highbush Blueberry

Abstract

In order to elucidate effects of 24-epibrassinolide (EB) on the efficiency of in vitro regeneration of highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L., cv. Brigitta blue), we analyzed variability of seven bioproductive parameters in regenerant plants cultured on nutrient media differing in hormonal composition. The additive action of EB, cytokinin (2iP), and auxin (IAA) was discovered for several parameters, such as reproduction coefficient, weight of regenerant plants, and the content of anthocyanin pigments. The greatest reproduction coefficients were noted in regenerant plants cultured on the medium containing 0.25 mg/L EB, 7.25 mg/L 2iP, and 1.00 mg/L IAA, as well as on the medium with 0.05 mg/L EB, 2.00 mg/L 2iP, and 0.50 mg/L IAA. It is suggested that low concentrations of 2iP and EB, applied in certain combinations, can be used for the industrial in vitro propagation of regenerant plants of highbush blueberry varieties.