This monograph provides a comprehensive review of many aspects of current interest and progress on mutation research on vegetatively propagated ornamentals. It covers almost all aspects of induced mutagenesis on ornamental plants. Chapters in this title provides information about mutation technology for the development of new ornamental varieties. Taking all aspects together, it is an excellent reference book of updated information on mutation breeding on vegetatively propagated ornamentals. Floriculture has become a very important industry in many countries as a result of science-based techniques and a steady supply of improved plant materials. The induced mutation is now recognized as well as a standardized valuable tool for the development of new varieties. The book provides an authoritative review account of all important aspects related to inducing mutagenesis in the field of ornamental crops.

The primary objective of the book is to give a coherent and concise account of earlier work with an emphasis on recent developments. The knowledge generated so far has been reviewed in this book which can work as a knowledge base to prepare guidelines for future planning of successful application of mutation technology for the floriculture industry. The information in the book is an excellent informative document for researchers, teachers, students, and breeders for understanding the application of induced mutations and planning future strategies for the development of new ornamental varieties for the floriculture industry.

Dr. S. K. Datta

Dr. S. K. Datta, Ph.D., D.Sc., is an internationally acclaimed expert in floriculture and mutation breeding. Dr. Datta was engaged in both basic and applied research for the improvement of floriculture for over more than 35 years at CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, India. His main field of research was induced mutations and improvement of ornamental plants.

Preface.- About the Author.- About the Book.- Introduction.- Part 1. Introduction.- Chapter 1 Introduction to Mutations.- Chapter 2 Introduction to Floriculture.- Chapter 3 World Status of Mutant Varieties of Different Ornamentals.- Chapter 4 Bud Sports / Spontaneous Mutations.- Chapter 5 Adventitious Bud Technique in Mutation Breeding.- Chapter 6 Experiments and Results.- Part 2 Crop Wise Mutation Work.- Chapter 7 Bougainvillea.- Chapter 8 Chrysanthemum.- Chapter 9 Gladiolus.- Chapter 10 Rose.- Chapter 11 Tuberose.- Part 3 Other Ornamentals.- Chapter 12 Other Ornamentals Mutation Work.- Part 4 Genotoxic Effects of Mutagens.- Chapter 13 Characterization of Mutants and Cause of Flower Color Mutations.- Part 5 Conclusion.- Chapter 14 Inference of Mutation Work on Ornamentals in a Nutshell.- Back matter Crop-wise Mutation References.