Evaluation of different mutagens in tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) cut flower

Various techniques are used to introduce new cultivars, especially in ornamental species like tuberose, which have limited genetic diversity. This study employed a completely randomized design with three replications to investigate the effects of different mutagens on mutation induction in tuberose bulbs. The mutagens tested included sodium azide at concentrations of 200, 300, and 400 mg L^-1, ethyl methanesulfonate at 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 mg L^-1, and gamma rays at doses of 10, 20, and 30 Gy. After exposure to the mutagens, both mother and daughter bulbs were grown for two consecutive years under greenhouse conditions. Our results indicated an increase in the number of florets in bulbs treated with sodium azide, regardless of the concentration used. The largest floret diameter, measuring 47.82 mm, was recorded in samples treated with ethyl methanesulfonate at a concentration of 0.5 mg L^-1. This same concentration also resulted in an increase in the reducing sugar content within the petals. The longest vase life, recorded at 8.66 days, was observed in samples exposed to gamma radiation at a dose of 10 Gy. Significant changes in enzymatic antioxidants were noted in bulbs treated with the different mutagens, both before and after harvest. In conclusion, all three mutagens had an influence on the growth of tuberose plants, affecting various morphological, physiological, and postharvest parameters.