Applications and future prospects of in vitro grafting in horticulture crops

Abstract

In-vitro grafting, a micrografting technique under aseptic conditions, has emerged as a significant advancement in horticultural science, allowing for enhanced control over grafting conditions and facilitating the detailed study of plant signaling, virus transmission, and graft compatibility. This review explores the applications and potential of in-vitro grafting in the propagation of horticultural crops, highlighting its role in producing virus-free plants, enabling rapid virus screening, and investigating plant physiological responses through grafting. The technique's benefits include the production of disease-free plants, sustainability through reduced agrichemical use, and potential automation to address labor shortages. In-vitro grafting's advantages over traditional methods make it a valuable tool in modern horticultural practices, particularly for the commercial production of economically important fruit and vegetable crops.