MUTATION INDUCTION

Mutations can sometimes create interesting phenotypes for breeding. This can occur spontaneously, but it is also possible to induce mutations by using mutagenic radiation or chemicals. Tissue culture is an excellent way to perform mutagenesis, because tissue culture material is very juvenile and because it allows the plant to recover in a protected environment. When a suitable mutagenic dose has been found, a large number of plants can be treated and planted in the greenhouse for evaluation.