Sandeep Bhardwaj, Manju Kumari, T Chethan, Madhuri Hosamani, Mouli Paul, Abhinash Moirangthem, Asit Prasad Dash, Subhash Verma
High-quality planting material that is genetically uniform, physiologically vigorous, and pathogen-free is essential for sustainable horticultural crop production. Traditional vegetative propagation methods such as cuttings, suckers, and grafting are limited by low multiplication rates and the high risk of transmitting systemic pathogens, particularly viruses, bacteria, and viroids. Plant tissue culture offers a reliable alternative, enabling rapid clonal multiplication and reducing disease transmission through the use of clean, meristematic tissues. Key micropropagation stages, including establishment, multiplication, rooting, and acclimatization, collectively facilitate the large-scale production of true-to-type plants. Advanced regeneration pathways such as organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis further support the propagation of elite and recalcitrant genotypes, germplasm conservation, and genetic improvement programs. Recent technological innovations including bioreactor systems, low-cost culture strategies, LED lighting, molecular diagnostics, and AI-assisted culture management have significantly enhanced the efficiency, scalability, and commercial feasibility of micropropagation. Integration of tissue culture with molecular biology and precision agriculture is increasingly strengthening global efforts to supply high-quality, disease-free planting material for diverse horticultural crops.