Influence of basal medium formulations and silver nanoparticles on in vitro plant growth in gerbera

This study investigated the impact of two distinct MS basal media: one containing FeNaEDTA and the other FeEDDHA, on the growth of five unique gerbera cultivars (Shy Pink, Pink Holic, Breeze, Harmony, Snow Dream). Notably, the response to these media types varied significantly among the cultivars, particularly concerning leaf yellowing and plant growth. ‘Shiny Pink’ and ‘Pink Holic’ exhibited leaf yellowing on the FeNaEDTA-containing medium but displayed leaf greening on the FeEDDHA-containing medium. In contrast, ‘Snow Dream,’ ‘Harmony,’ and ‘Breeze’ remained unaffected on both medium types. However, the FeNaEDTA- containing medium promoted higher plant height and petiole length in ‘Breeze,’ ‘Harmony,’ and ‘Snow Dream’ than the FeNaEDTA-containing medium did. A promotive effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on plant growth and leaf greening was observed in ‘Pink Holic,’ particularly on the FeNaEDTA-containing medium, while the addition of AgNPs to the FeEDDHA-containing medium negatively affected plant growth. These results highlight the substantial influence of medium type, specifically the presence of FeNaEDTA or FeEDDHA, on gerbera growth responses, emphasizing the critical role of medium selection in gerbera propagation. Additionally, when contemplating the addition of AgNPs for in vitro gerbera propagation, it is crucial to consider the medium type.