Using stem apex as primary explants, a micropropagation protocol of Vaccinium meridionale was established. During establishment phase the effect of the MS/3, WPM, AND and Kyte media, supplemented with 2-iP plus IAA or BA plus IAA was studied. During microshoot proliferation the effect of MS/3 liquid, solid and double phase (the liquid phase in a solidified phase with agar) supplemented with 2-iP plus IAA was evaluated. In vitro and ex vitro rooting of microshoots and microshoots was accomplished using auxines and/or activated charcoal; for root development a substratum with abundant organic matter was utilized. Plantlet hardening was achived simultaneously with the radical development process. After establishment phase, the highest quantity of axillary buds/explant was quantified in cultures performed in MS/3 supplemented with 2-iP, 59.05 µM plus IAA 17.13 µM. During the microshoot proliferation phase the highest average production was obtained in double phase MS/3. After 60 days of hardening 88-100% of rooted microshoots was obtained; these plantlets showed growth reactivation.
Vaccinium meridionale; Colombian Bilberry; micropropagation; in vitro culture; shoot tips
