I have a small greenhouse in which I grow tropical orchids (genus
paphiopedilum complete plus other species) and a few CPs. Mostly the
standard things -VFT, Pings, and some sundews.
A few Nepenthes species lurk in the
corners(burbidgii,rhienwardtia,alata,albo-marginata)
and these are the primary reason for writing. My real hobby is tissue
culture and in vitro seed propogation of rare species. I have been doing
this with orchids for about twenty years now. The greenhouse serves as a
sort of seed generator and we have a lab in the basement where I work
(hobby). Phalaenopsis node culture is virtually identical to node culture
for Nepenthes and this has been very sucessful. I have gotten lots of good
data on media and hormone concentrations for Nepenthes from the cp.list.
Last summer we successfully propogated the Nepenthes by node culture in pots
but would like to try generating some callus cultures and in vitro stem
props. Would appreciate any hints from those who have had success with this
proceedure, especially in the area of explant sterilization. Other important
questions are, -what length of time in the sterilizing solution for seed or
nodes and -what conc of sodium hypochlorite is most effective as a sterilant
for both?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Al Bickell