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Wisnu Ardi

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Wisnu Ardi

Orcid ID0000-0001-7388-7608

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graduate research assistant, UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka, FL

Publications

thumbnail for publication: A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Micropropagation and Tissue Culture

A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Micropropagation and Tissue Culture

Julian Ginori, Sandra Wilson, Wisnu Handoyo, and Heqiang Huo

Wax begonia (Begonia semperflorens-cultorum) is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings. However, for mass clonal propagation to maintain select traits or for controlled genetic studies, micropropagation and tissue culture serve as alternative means of propagation. This publication explains the differences between micropropagation and tissue culture, providing a breakdown of the stages involved in each process. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably due to similar procedural stages, they differ in their source of explant materials and primary objectives.

thumbnail for publication: A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Hybridization and the Gateway to a New World in Its Breeding

A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Hybridization and the Gateway to a New World in Its Breeding

Wisnu Ardi, Tao Jiang, and Heqiang Huo

Begonia spp. is one of the most diverse and popular ornamental plant groups, with over 2,000 species and hybrids valued for their foliage, flowers, and adaptability. Florida’s climate and horticultural industry make it a center for begonia production, yet practical guidance on hybridization remains limited. This publication provides a clear, step-by-step introduction to hybrid breeding for horticultural professionals, advanced gardeners, and researchers. Topics include basic genetics, selecting parent plants for desirable traits, pollination techniques to control crosses, and potential challenges. Methods for seed collection, germination, and hybrid evaluation are outlined with emphasis on assessing ornamental quality and stress resistance. Case studies from UF/IFAS breeding programs highlight successful crosses. This guide bridges science and practice to advance Begonia breeding for Florida and beyond.