Re: Re: Tectorum X bucharica cross / Thoughts On Germinating

 

Chuck
Embryo culture in sterile conditions ?
 
Second option for me would be germination in semi-sterile conditions with perlite / spagnum moss, as these mediums are much lower in pathogen loads than soil based mixes. ( 50/50 mix perlite/spagnum ) Further, they can be initially sterilized, with appropriate technique. While, technically not a true "sterile" production system, the pathogen loads are reduced to low levels. The addition of 50% spagnum is mildy stimulatory ( reference Dr. Galinat / personal communication ). The advantage with these type mediums is that they allow weak seedlings from inter-specific crosses a significantly longer window to germinate and establish before dangerous pathogens build up.
 
You can extend this favorable seed growing environment even further by covering your germinating container with Saran or similar wrap over the top with tiny perforation holes in it. If you want to get really fancy use a heavy wrap and put bandaids several places on the wrap. Then put a drop of bleach on the bandaid. Insert a sharp needle through the bandaid to give each a tiny air hole port. Leave the bandaids on. Periodically put a tiny drop of bleach on the bandaid to keep it clean. Every time you water, put a drop of bleach on the bandaid, then insert distilled water with a syringe/needle into the closed environment. If you use this modified system, never take the Saran off as it is the bug barrier. HOWEVER, monitor very closely and never over water - less is better. Of course it can't be too dry. Might also consider a light fungicide on the seed as additional protection. Don't use a tiny container as the smaller the container the more intense the management of watering and controlling the environment becomes.
 
I have used this basic system with several different modifications for many types of inter-specific crosses. Its a little too intense for general use, but good when you have something really valuable you need to help along. Of course the seed has to have the genetic capacity to germinate and not all inter-specifics do - as you will know.
 
Do not know if this type cross would require cold stratification to germinate - perhaps others can give some support based on the habits of the primary species. You can place your sealed container in appropriate environments for stratification needs.
 
Good luck.
 
Hope this helps.
irisman646
 
 
----- Original Message -----
To: iris-species@yahoogroups.com ; i*@hort.net
Sent: Saturday, September 05, 2009 3:37 PM
Subject: [iris-species] Re: Tectorum X bucharica cross

 

The seed pod from this cross finally ripened. It took a lot longer then
almost all of the crosses made this season, and it was the first one
made. Only two seeds in the pod. One is a fair bit smaller hen the
other.

What I need is some ideas of what germination methods I should use for
this cross. I have germinated some tectorm seeds before using
standard TB methods, but a very limited germination. As these seeds are
rather special I want to give them the best chance at doing something.

Chuck Chapman

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