Somatic embryogenesis from leaf of witloof chicory through suspension culture

A procedure for regeneration of somatic embryogenesis from witloof chicory leaf has been developed. Explants were taken from the distal third part of leaf vein and cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) containing 100 mg/1 casein hydrolysate 1.3 μM 2,4-D, and 1.3 μM kinetin. A pale yellowisl nodular callus was formed after 4 weeks which was maintained in the same medium for 8-12 weeks with one change to a fresh medium every 4 weeks. Callus was then suspended in the same medium without agar for 4-6 weeks with one change to a fresh medium every 2 weeks. Embryo-like structures appeared upon transfer to liquid MS containing 1.8 μM benzyladenine. Embryo germination was accomplished in half strength MS medium with or without 1 g/l activated charcoal.