Breeding and micropropagation of Phalaenopsis orchids

Abstract

The procedure for breeding Phalaenopsis orchids involves several key steps: setting breeding objectives, cross-hybridization, in vitro seed germination, cultivating seedlings through various growth stages, inducing the formation of floral spikes and flowering, selecting desirable lines, and using floral stalk node culture for micropropagation. The global orchid market features numerous commercial Phalaenopsis hybrids, with new cultivars continually emerging each year. Breeding goals for new hybrids now include achieving polyploidy, splashy color patterns, vivid floral fragrances, and growth of multiple flower spikes. To cut costs, high energy efficiency during production is now a priority. This efficiency has led to creating hybrids between Phalaenopsis and the Vanda alliance that can flower easily in simple greenhouses without air conditioning. This chapter outlines the processes of in vitro seed germination, embryo rescue, flower stalk node culture, and micropropagation of Phalaenopsis to provide an outline for a comprehensive breeding scheme. We hope this exercise in genetics, biotechnology, and engineering will be a useful guide for commercial orchid breeders worldwide.