Optimization of a system for offshoot production of Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus fiori of the 'locale di mola' type

In this work, evaluation was made for a possible application of "innovative vegetative propagation systems for large-scale production of globe artichoke transplants" as described by Cardarelli et al. (2005) for the 'Romanesco' cultivar, on micropropagated plants of early 'Locale di Mola' artichokes. In addition, the effects of mycorrhizal inoculum were studied. The system included the following steps: 1) production of micropropagated plantlets free from fungi and bacteria; 2) inoculation of these with arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi and growth in soil-less culture in greenhouse conditions; 3) treatment of stock plants with a chemical growth regulator (6 benzylamino purine BAP) and cut at the collar level to promote offshoot production. The results show the important role of mycorrhiza to optimize a system for offshoot production of Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus Fiori of the 'Locale di Mola' type. © ISHS.