Strategies for maintaining and increasing throughput of in vitro cultures of sugarcane

Simple in vitro protocols were developed or improved for in vitro manipulations of sugarcane (Saccharum species hybrids) to free up resources, deal with back-logs and increase throughput in research and commercial laboratories. These include: (1) in vitro germination of field-derived axillary buds for meristem isolation; (2) a 'common' medium for rapid shoot multiplication resulting from single genetic modification events; (3) shoot storage for 12 months; (4) 'holding-back' in vitro plantlets before acclimation. The novel strategies have proven reliable and effective in managing changing demands on resources and priorities.