Basically the technique of
Micro Propagation
consists of taking a piece of a plant - such as the tip of stem, node, meristem, embryo, or even a seed
and placing it in a sterile, nutrient medium where it multiplies(usually gel-based ie Agar).
The formulation of the growth medium is changed depending upon whether you are trying to get the plant to produce undifferentiated
callus tissue, multiply the number of plantlets, grow roots, or multiply embryos for "artificial seed".
For many of those who become aware of the technique it seems shrouded in mystery and is often shrugged off as too technical to be of concern.
It is actually no more of a mystery than taking a cutting from one of your favorite house plant and growing it to share with your friends.
As for being technical, you can begin plant tissue culture with as little as a few nutrients, a feeling for sterile technique and a little knowledge.
Most people have visions of scientists doing plant tissue cultures in white gowns and masks in sterile lab environments. Such conditions are often excessive.
While it is true that mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants will grow and overrun a culture, air that is not moving has a minimum of contaminants.
In addition, disinfection of implements, work surface and nearby areas helps eliminate contaminants. Good info on
Designing a Plant Micropropagation Laboratory
can be found here.
The guidelines for preparation and the laboratory protocol provided here are given as a place to begin.
Our suggestions are for further reading of the following;
