Nodule culture, a possible morphogenetic pathway in Cichorium intybus L. propagation

Abstract The regeneration of meristematic nodules from Cichorium intybus L. leaves cultivated in vitro and their development into plantlets when transferred to soil is described. Nodule induction was optimum on Quoirin-Lepoivre medium, supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine and 3-indolebutyric acid. Nodules regenerated buds after their transfer onto free hormone medium, or after they were sown like seeds into a mixture of perlite/compost in the greenhouse. Shoot formation was rapidly followed by the rooting phase. Restitution of the tap root was observed. The possible application of this new technique to C. intybus breeding, as well as in strategies for quick multiplication and automation are discussed.