ABSTRACT
Introduction The asexual techniques of plant propagation are very important in preserving the genetic integrity of plant material for conservation. Techniques for propagation have developed over several centuries and research in this field is currently very active (Macdonald, 1986; Gardiner, 1988; Hartmann et al., 1990; McMillan Browse, 1997). The advantages of vegetative propagation in horticulture can be seen where particular characters (genotype) need to be perpetuated and these can not be maintained through sexual reproduction. This is the case in clones of pear, apple, strawberry and in many ornamental and horticultural examples such as orchids. However, in the interest of plant health and where a species can be raised from seed without the danger of hybridizing, e.g. apomictic species, seed-grown plants should also be considered.
