Induction of variability in China aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] by chemical mutagens

AbstractThe study was conducted at the Floriculture Research Farm, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, during 2020-21. Seedlings of China aster variety Arka Kamini were treated with different doses of chemical mutagens, namely Diethyl Sulfonate (DES) and Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS), comprising 11 treatments: 0.05% DES (T1), 0.10% DES (T2), 0.15% DES (T3), 0.20% DES (T4), 0.25% DES (T5), 0.05% EMS (T6), 0.10% EMS (T7), 0.15% EMS (T8), 0.20% EMS (T9), 0.25% EMS (T10) and a control (T11). The effects of the mutagens were evaluated, focusing on the induction of mutants and the occurrence of vegetative and floral abnormalities. A total of 24 mutants with desirable colour characteristics were isolated from the treatments. Additionally, three vegetative chimeras were observed in the 0.20% DES, 0.15% EMS, and 0.20% EMS treatments. Notably, a mutant (T5M1) exhibiting strong red coloured flowers was identified in the 0.25% DES treatment.