Tissue culture stores plant genetics as tiny shoots in sterile gel, sealed in test tubes. A single tube the size of a thumb can preserve a keeper cut for years.

Mother plants vs tissue culture
Living mothers
  • Easy to keep if you have space and light
  • Vulnerable to pests, disease, root issues
  • Genetic drift possible over years of cuttings
Tissue culture
  • Pathogen-free if started clean
  • Tiny footprint — hundreds of cuts in a shelf
  • Stable for years with minimal labor
  • Lab setup required (laminar flow, autoclave)