Floriculture

Abstract: Cut Flowers: A.M. Kofranek, Cut Chrysanthemums. C.A. Whealy, Carnations. D.J. Durkin, Roses. M.N. Rogers, Snapdragons. T.J. Sheehan, Orchids. G.J. Wilfret, Gladiolus. A.M. Armitage, Specialty Cut Flowers. Potted Plants: A. De Hertogh, Bulbous and Tuberous Plants. R.A. Larson, Azaleas. G.D. Crater, Potted Chrysanthemums. R.K. Kimmins, Gloxinias, African Violets, and Other Gesneriads. D.E. Hartley, Poinsettias. T.C. Weiler, Easter Lilies. D.A. Bailey, Hydrangeas. R.E. Widmer, Cyclamen. M.G. Karlsson and R.D. Heins, Begonias. A.J. Pertuit, Jr., Kalanchoe. W.C. Fonteno, Geraniums. P.A. Hammer, Other Flowering Pot Plants. W.H. Carlson, M.P. Kaczperski, and E.M. Rowley, Bedding Plants. V.R. Walter, Hanging Baskets, Standards, Combination Pots, and Vertical Gardens. C.A. Conover, Foliage Plants. Chapter References. Glossary. Index.

Abstract: Micro-propagation, embryo rescue, mutagenesis via chemical or irradiation means and in vitro inter-specific hybridisation methods have been used by breeders in the floriculture industry for many years. In the past 20 years these enabling technologies have been supplemented by genetic modification methods. Though many genes of potential utility to the floricultural industry have been identified, and much has been learnt of the genetic factors and molecular mechanisms underlying phenotypes of great importance to the industry, there are only flower colour modified varieties of carnation and rose in the marketplace. To a large extent this is due to unique financial barriers to market entry for genetically modified varieties of flower crops, including use of technology fees and costs of regulatory approval.

Abstract: Developing new ornamental cultivars with improved floral attributes is a major goal in floriculture. Biotechnological approach together with classical breeding methods has been used to modify floral color, appearance as well as for increasing disease resistance. Transgenic strategies possess immense potential to produce novel flower phenotypes that are not found in nature. Adoption of Genetic engineering has supported the idea of floral trait modification. Ornamental plant attributes like floral color, fragrance, disease resistance and vase life can be improved by means of genetic manipulation. Therefore, we witness transgenic plant varieties of high aesthetic and commercial value. This review focuses on biotechnological advancements in manipulating key floral traits that contribute in development of diverse ornamental plant lines. Data clearly reveals that regulation of biosynthetic pathways related to characteristics like pigment production, flower morphology and fragrance is both possible and predictable. In spite of their great significance, small number of genetically engineered varieties of ornamental plants has been field tested. Today, novel flower colors production is regarded as chief commercial benefit obtained from transgenic plants. But certain other floral traits are much more important and have high commercial potential. Other than achievements such as novel architecture, modified flower color, etc. very few reports are available regarding successful transformation of other valuable horticultural characteristics. Our review also summarized biotechnological efforts related to enhancement of fragrance and induction of early flowering along with changes in floral anatomy and morphology.