An investigation into the effects of closure type, light and pH on the development of shoots and roots and subsequent establishment of micropropagated cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) plants

A cauliflower micropropagation protocol is described with emphasis on the environmental conditions used. The environmental conditions within the culture jars were modified by using 4 different cover methods. The best results were produced in cultures covered with cotton wool, and the worst results with tightly-closed aluminium caps. Light intensity also produced significant differences between cultured transplants. The dry and fresh weights were about 50 and 28% higher, respectively, in cultures grown under light. In contrast, cultures grown under dark had about 20% higher water content. Results also showed the most acidic medium used (pH 4.5) was the best as an initiation medium.