The influence of silicon dioxide «Kovelos-Sorb» on growth characteristics of Rhododendron roseum (Loisel.) Rehder cultivated in vitro

The article reveals a stimulating effect of synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide on growth parameters Rhododendron roseum (Loisel.) Rehder, propagating itself in vitro . The purpose of this study was to identify the optimum composition of culture medium on the basis of amorphous silica ‘Kovelos-Sorb’, used for clonal micropropagation of rhododendrons. It was established that it is preferable to add to Anderson culture medium 100 mg/L of amorphous silicon dioxide, which stimulated the growth of mericlone germs Rhododendron roseum (Loisel.) Rehder. In order to stimulate propagation and for receiving a vast amount of propagating material, it was optimal to use Anderson medium which contained 50 mg/L of amorphous silicon dioxide. For establishment of regenerative plants Rhododendron roseum (Loisel.) Rehder in vitro, it was optimal to use Anderson medium which contained synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide in amounts of 50-150 mg/L combined with indoleacetic acid in amounts of 1.5 mg/L.