Gamma ray irradiation on Swiss cheese estates (Monstera adansonii): growth, development, and variation.

Abstract

Purpose: Swiss Cheese (Monstera adansonii) is an ornamental plant valued for its exotic leaves with openings and for the variety of colors. The technique of controlled exposure to gamma radiation was investigated to induce variegation (color change) in the leaves of this plant.

Materials and methods: Monstera adansonii cuttings were irradiated with different doses of radiation with ⁶⁰Co gamma rays (0, 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 Gy) and evaluated for size, color, health, and growth.

Results: Cuttings irradiated with 1 and 5 Gy exhibited temporary variegation in leaf color, but did not maintain these characteristics over time. Cuttings with higher doses of radiation (10, 15, and 20 Gy) did not survive well and showed a reduction in growth, number of leaves, health, and sprouting rate.

Conclusions: This research concludes that gamma radiation can affect the development of cuttings and shows the potential to induce variegation at lower doses, but more studies and prolonged observation are needed to determine whether this technique can produce variegation in a consistent and lasting way in M. adansonii. Therefore, although promising initial results have been observed, it is premature to state that gamma radiation is an effective method for inducing variegation in this plant.