Sandra B. Wilson Research Group

University of Florida

Which propagation methods reliably produce healthy ornamental and native plants for Florida landscapes under commercial production constraints? The group evaluates propagation strategies, including micropropagation and tissue culture, to enable mass clonal propagation and controlled genetic studies. Researchers develop and test infertile cultivars such as new Lantana camara varieties to offer alternatives to invasive forms. The team measures rooting success using treated softwood cuttings and optimizes substrates and misting schedules to improve propagation outcomes. Projects compare production schedules and physiological dormancy treatments to increase availability of desirable native and ornamental plants.