Actively making use of natural potential and advance of science and technology, farmers in Da Lat resort city of the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong have earned their reputation as leading flower growers in using tissue implantation techniques in Viet Nam.

The resort city is witnessing a busy period of applying this high technique in growing and multiplying flower species with more than 50 laboratories opened by not only local producers but also leading Asian flower growers.

Scores of new species of flowers and vegetables successfully cultivated from tissue and cell implantation have quickly become favourites of both local and foreign flower-lovers.

At the end of 2006, researchers from the Viet Nam Institute of Science and Technology and Ho Chi Minh City National University succeeded in multiplying lilies by using tissue implantation and bioreactor solution. The techniques help shorten growing time, improve flower quality and reduce price.

Apart from creating various kinds of flowers for trade, scientists have also applied tissue implantation in multiplying flower species capable of resisting viruses and several diseases.

Many farmers in Da Lat have been active in combining this new technique with their experiences to yield high-quality flowers. Farmer Pham Anh Tuan, for instance, has succeeded in multiplying more than 3,000 kinds of garbera from both local and foreign gene sources. In 2006 alone, he supplied over 10,000 new varieties of garbera for the market at a price just equal to one-forth of that offered by foreign suppliers.

These above-mentioned techniques have helped scientists create various new rare and precious species of flowers in Da Lat, making it now possible for flower-lovers to enjoy the beauty of hydrangea during the daytime instead of night as usual, as well as a copious collection of orchids.

With the aim of making use of this potential, the provincial department of science and technology have deployed measures geared to encourage scientists to research more with the aim of improving quality of products like vegetables, flowers, tea and coffee, thus paving the way for developing hi-end industrial zones and flower research centres.

In 2006, the Ministry of Science and Technology decided to support Lam Dong to develop its flower growing industry. To this end, the ministry urged the provincial authorities to map out a draft plan to develop the local flower sector towards sustainability, establish a flower research centre and coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies to train flower experts.

The Danish government has provided assistance for a number of flower growing establishments in Da Lat with the aim of improving the competitive edge of their products in international markets.

Source: VNA