Plants From Test Tubes: An Introduction To Micropropagation

Originally published in 1983, Plants from Test Tubes was one of the first how-to books on plant tissue culture or "cloning". It continues to be an internationally popular primer. New to this third edition is in-depth information on culture contaminants, a tutorial on the use of the microscope, and a discussion of the role of tissue culture as an indispensable tool in modern biotechnology. Plants from Test Tubes remains the most accessible and practical book on the subject. The book is divided into two sections. The first, "The Basics of Tissue Culture", begins with a discussion of the historical and botanical background of micropropagation. A short course in chemistry lays the foundation for media preparation instructions. Sterile technique and culture care are described in detail. Advice is offered on how to deal with possible problems with cultures, including such topics as vitrification, lack of growth, and contamination. Section II, "Culture Guide to Selected Plants", provides recipes for propagating 54 varieties of ferns, conifers, and flowering plants - an increase of 15 percent from the previous edition. An extensive bibliography and a large appendix of suppliers of chemicals and equipment complete this comprehensive edition.

Acclaimed since its first appearance as the most practical guide to plant tissue culture and widely adopted as a textbook, this standard work is now even better. This expanded edition introduces new developments in biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and cell culture. It provides detailed recipes for propagating plants from more than 30 families. It explains clearly how to set up a propagating laboratory, from a hobbyist's kitchen to an elaborate commercial enterprise.