Efficient callus formation and plant regeneration from leaves of oats (Avena sativa L.).

An efficient plant regeneration system from leaf-derived callus in 6 genotypes of Avena sativa L. has been established. Regenerable callus was induced in the basal 1-2 mm region of 2 to 5 day old seedlings. Plants were regenerated from the regenerable callus and grown to maturity. The frequency of regenerable callus formation and plant regeneration was correlated with the position, developmental stage and genotype of the expiant. The regeneration capacity of the first one mm of the leaf basal region from three day old seedlings was comparable to that of immature embryos. Furthermore, the leaf regenerable calli were subcultured for 8 months without loss of their regeneration capabilities.