Evaluation of virus-free potato minitubers derived from “in vitro” meristem cultures for high-quality seed potato production

At present, the base for seed potato production is the potato minitubers produced in protected” insect-proof” spaces. For seed potato production it is essential to use a healthy and high-quality biological material, which contributes to obtaining superior production, both quantitatively and qualitatively. In potatoes, to eradicate viruses and obtain a healthy initial material, we have at our disposal the technique of sampling and “in vitro” cultivation of meristems. In 2024, 11 potato cultivars grown in greenhouses were evaluated. The mini-tubers are derived from "in vitro" cultivated plants. Before micropropagation, the plantlets have been subjected to viral testing using the ELISA technique. Potato microplants used for "in vitro" multiplication were obtained from meristem cultures. Regarding the average number of minitubers/pot, the best results were obtained in 'Castrum' (11.50), 'Ervant' (10.80) and 'Sevastia' (10.10) cultivars. The best results in terms of the average weight of minitubers/plant were obtained in 'Brașovia' (271.62 g), 'Darilena' (270.13 g) and 'Ervant' (258.87 g) cultivars. The 'Brașovia' and 'Darilena' cultivars also recorded the highest values of the average weight of minitubers (53.2 g and 50.92 g, respectively). The highest percentage of minitubers >30 mm (60%) was found for 'Brașovia' and 'Darilena' cultivars. Also, for 'Asinaria', 'Cosiana', 'Ervant', 'Foresta', 'Marvis' and 'Sarmis' cultivars, the highest rate was recorded for minitubers in the size fraction 25-30 mm and >30 mm. By selecting appropriate cultivars and managing them according to their specific needs, potato growers can enhance the efficiency of seed production systems and achieve higher yields in field multiplication stages.