Cuttings and tissue culture

Brandon Schanbacher (bschanba@oucsace.cs.ohiou.edu)
Wed, 9 Oct 1996 15:07:13 -0400 (EDT)

A couple of quick questions about cuttings and tissue culture for you more
experienced folks on the list.

I have a VFT which has done very well over the summer here in Ohio, thanks
to the list, and I was wondering if now is a bad time to take some cuttings
from it. We are beginning to get on into fall and the plant has begun
sending out leaves which are shorter and closer to the ground. Also, were I
to take cuttings, what would be the best method.

A cape sundew I purchased from Carolina Biological 4 years ago has
gotten a rather long (3 inch) stalk on which it has its crown of leaves.
It has all but stopped growing and I wondered it I could take cuttings
from the stalk at all?

Last question: Does anyone know where I can obtain resources and information
on getting my own small scale tissue culture going? I basically want to know
what kinds of chemical are needed and is it even feasible to try TC on my own?
My main goal is to try to boost my own collection and give a few to friends.
Being a biologist, I can't just do things the easy way. It will mainly be a
test to see if I can do it. Anyway, if anyone can offer suggestions, I'd be
most greatful.

Thanks in advance.

Brandon Schanbacher