System construction of virus-free and rapid-propagation technology of Baodi garlic (Allium sativum L.)

- We optimized culture medium for induction of adventitious buds of garlic.
- The regenerated plants had achieved definite virus-free effect.
- The complete technical system can save culture time, and reduce the production cost.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is cultivated by extensive vegetative propagation, which may lead to germplasm degradation, the accumulation of various viruses, a low propagation coefficient, and high production costs. Tissue culture is the most effective method for the rapid propagation and germplasm enhancement of virus-free garlic. Here, we present a system for producing tissue culture garlic using inflorescences of Baodi garlic 'Liu Ban Hong' as explants. By optimizing the type and concentration of plant growth regulators, as many as 11 adventitious buds could be produced from one explant. The propagation coefficient of bulblets in vitro could reach 10.64 per explant after optimization of the culture approach and induction parameters. Additionally, tissue culture garlic was shown to achieve a certain virus elimination effect by ELISA. In this study, we present a complete system for producing virus-free Baodi garlic from explants. This system provides important technical support for eliminating viruses, increasing propagation efficiency, maintaining genetic stability, and improving the quality of garlic.