POLYPLOIDY IN FLOWER CROPS

Polyploidy breeding is an effective method for doubling the chromosome number of a species. Genetic variations created can be further used in breeding programme. Polyploidy breeding holds immense prospects in developing desirable varieties in flower crops. With the help of polyploidy , changes in morphology and cytology of plant are observed. Tetraploids are more vigorous and larger in size. Tetraploids produce thick and dark green leaves . Mostly seen consequences of induced polyploidy are increase in size and shape of plants; leaves, branches, flower parts, fruit s and seeds. Intensification of flower colour and fragrance is observed in Marigold plants following chromosome number doublin g. Chemicals like colchicine, oryzalin, triXuralin and amiprophosmethyl (APM) etc. are used in induct ion of polyploids. Although colchicine remained the most used for induction of polyploidy. Chromosome doubling using various chemicals was observed in flower crops viz., Marigold, Aster, Orchid, Jasmine, Lillium, Chrysanthemum, Alstromeria, Anthurium, Rose and Gerbera .