TISSUE CULTURE STAGE DESCRIPTIONS

Pending variety, microcuttings range in size from 3/4 to 2 inches in length (generally, Anthuriums are the smallest). Most microcuttings will have 2 to 3 leaves and show signs of root initiation. Microcuttings are packaged in sealed plastic containers and are successfully shipped to all major horticultural capitals around the world. This stage of production is our principal product and is the most economical, both in terms of plant entry cost and freight expense, particularly for overseas shipments.

Stage III Microcuttings

Stage III microcuttings are simply stage II microcuttings grown and shipped in 5" round plastic vessels containing specially formulated agar media. Stage III microcuttings will generally have some modest root development. We recommend stage III for a few varieties that require further establishment (more difficult to harden-off), when multiple crop orders need be collected for a specific ship date, when products cannot be handled immediately upon arrival, or when our customers may need extended distribution times. Once planted, there is no difference in cultural requirements and grow times between stage II and stage III plants. A stage III product is not meant for aseptic re-establishment. Additionally, through the rigors of shipping, it is not uncommon for visible signs of harmless air-borne contaminants to develop.

Stage IV Young Plants

Greenhouse hardened tissue cultured plants ready for planting in larger pots.  All varieties are grown in soil-less media of Canadian peat and perlite. Generally, young plants (liners) are available in 98, 72 or 50 cell pack trays. Pending variety and characteristics of plants, stage IV plants may be planted with tissue cultured clumps, or 1, 2 or 3 microcuttings per cell. Young plants can vary in size but are generally shipped when 3 to 4 inches above the media.