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Measuring freezing tolerance: survival and regrowth assays
Daniel Z Skinner1, Kimberly Garland-Campbell
1USDA-ARS, Wheat Genetics Unit, Washington State University, 209 Johnson Hall, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA, dzs@wsu.edu.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|May 24, 2014
Summary
This study introduces a new method for testing cereal plant freezing tolerance using intact plants. This approach aids in studying plant freezing tolerance and selecting for improved winterhardiness in crops.
Area of Science:
- Plant science
- Agronomy
- Crop physiology
Background:
- Assessing plant freezing tolerance is crucial for crop improvement.
- Traditional methods involve isolating plant tissues, which may alter natural responses.
- Previous artificial freezing tests for cereals used dissected crown and stem tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an improved method for assessing freezing tolerance in cereal plants.
- To enable the study of freezing tolerance using intact plants under controlled conditions.
- To provide guidance on data collection and analysis for this method.
Main Methods:
- Conducting artificial freezing tests on intact cereal plants.
- Utilizing small horticultural containers for plant growth.
- Implementing suggested protocols for data acquisition and analysis.
Main Results:
- A refined methodology for freezing tolerance testing in cereals is presented.
- The method allows for testing intact plants, offering a more ecologically relevant assessment.
- Guidelines for data handling are provided to ensure consistent results.
Conclusions:
- The described method offers a valuable alternative for studying plant freezing tolerance.
- This technique can enhance the selection process for improved winterhardiness in cereal crops.
- Intact plant testing provides a more comprehensive understanding of freezing stress responses.
