Efficient regeneration of Vanda coerulea, an endangered orchid using thidiazuron

Efficient shoot regeneration of Vanda coerulea was achieved using thin shoot tip sections and thidiazuron. Protocorm-like bodies or proliferating shoot buds was observed when thin shoot tip sections were cultured on Vacin and Went's (VW) (1949) basal medium supplemented with 11.35 M thidiazuron. The highest percentage of protocorm-like bodies (95%) survived and ultimately produced healthy shoots with 2-3 leaves when subjected to a 4 week thidiazuron treatment. A culture period longer than 8 weeks with thidiazuron resulted in the formation of fasciated or distorted shoots. Shoots produced roots when cultured on half strength VW basal medium supplemented with 11.42 muM IAA. The well rooted shoots were transferred to pots containing charcoal chips, coconut husk and broken tiles (2: 2: 1) and a 98% survival rate was achieved.