Selection, characterization, and propagation of ornamental species with multifunctional potential

Abstract

Horticulture has been increasingly guided by plant systems that integrate multiple functionalities, based on the principle that a single species fulfills multiple roles. Sweet potato and vanilla fit within this context by integrating aesthetic, food, and industrial characteristics. The study of these two species complements multifunctional research approaches, as it allows for discussion of important stages in the production chain. Sweet potato is revealed as a model for the selection of multiple traits, while vanilla exemplifies the development of propagation technologies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to contribute to the application of plant multifunctionality through two approaches: the selection of genetic material, using sweet potato as a model species, and the optimization of in vitro propagation systems, using vanilla as the study species. For this purpose, two articles were developed: the first aimed to characterize and select sweet potato genotypes with multifunctional potential for landscape use in beds and for food production of roots and leaves; and the second presented a new strategy for vanilla propagation using temporary immersion bioreactors. It is concluded that the approach proposed in this thesis confirms the multifunctional viability of sweet potato, demonstrating that it is possible to recommend materials for ornamental use in landscape beds, food production using the roots and leaves, and contributing to plant selection and breeding programs focused on multiple traits. In addition, the results indicate that the use of biotechnological tools is essential to enable large-scale production of species with high multifunctional demand, such as vanilla, through the optimization of micropropagation systems.