FFA Floriculture Practice Test

In horticulture, what does the term "explant" refer to?

1. Whole potted plants

2. Soil amendments

3. Small pieces of plant material used in tissue culture

4. Varieties of flowers for planting

The correct answer is: Small pieces of plant material used in tissue culture

The term "explant" in horticulture specifically refers to small pieces of plant material that are used in tissue culture. This technique involves taking a small portion of a plant, such as a leaf, stem, or root, and placing it in a sterile medium that allows for the growth of new plant tissues. Tissue culture is widely used for the propagation of plants, especially those that are rare, difficult to grow from seed, or needing virus-free specimens. In tissue culture, the explants can be manipulated to develop into whole plants through a controlled environment, ensuring healthy growth and development. This method is crucial in research and commercial plant production, allowing for mass propagation and the preservation of plant varieties. The other options do not accurately represent the concept of explants as they pertain to different aspects of horticulture, like whole plants, soil amendments, or flower varieties, which do not involve the specific technique of tissue culture.