A Brief Discussion on the Bud Mutation of Clivia Miniata
This article provides a detailed explanation of common gardening knowledge about Clivia Miniata, discussing the phenomenon of bud mutation. Next, the editor will introduce the topic to you.
After three to four years of cultivation, Clivia Miniata often produces suckers around the rhizome, commonly known as "axillary buds" (side buds or limb buds). These suckers can be separated from the mother plant for propagation, generally retaining the characteristics of the original variety. However, they may also undergo genetic mutations, resulting in obvious differences in certain parts or organs of the plant compared to the original variety, such as shorter plant height, larger and shorter leaves, more leaf colors, and different flowers and seeds. This phenomenon is called "bud mutation."
People take advantage of this characteristic of Clivia Miniata bud mutation to select excellent new Clivia Miniata varieties, known as "bud mutation selection." Clivia Miniata is prone to bud mutation, which comes in various types. Some mutations are disadvantageous from an ornamental perspective, known as "inferior mutations." Others meet people's requirements and are considered "superior mutations." The purpose of bud selection is to eliminate the inferior and select the superior.
For Clivia Miniata enthusiasts, carefully observing the plants and promptly reporting superior mutations to experts or research departments is the best method. Axillary buds are most easily discovered when leaves show variation. After severe natural disasters, it is also a good opportunity to find mutations that resist certain natural disasters. In late December 1999, Guangdong experienced historically rare frost damage, with temperatures as low as -4 to -5 degrees Celsius. It was possible to select new cold-resistant bud mutation varieties from the Clivia Miniata plants that survived the severe cold.
Changes in Clivia Miniata's growing conditions can often cause abnormal behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive analysis of some variations during the bud mutation selection process, distinguishing between bud mutation and normal variation. The former is a genetic change, i.e., a true mutation, while the latter is a reflection of temporary changes in environmental conditions or cultivation management. Even true bud mutations may show varying stability, with some reverting to the original state after a few years, and the variation disappearing.
If superior mutations are found, they should go through steps such as preliminary selection, identification, and reselection to gradually develop into new varieties. The specific method is: when a preliminary identification confirms a true bud mutation, the plant should be protected and marked, with records of the variation, location, and characteristics. From the second to the third year, the initial selections are reviewed, and by the fourth year, a final selection is made. For particularly excellent bud mutation varieties, it is necessary to propagate them quickly to prepare for future market introduction and give them names. Practice shows that the method of bud mutation selection for Clivia Miniata is simple, easy to master, and effective, making it a good way to cultivate new varieties.
The above discussion on the bud mutation of Clivia Miniata aims to be helpful to you!