Radiofrequency Identification Tagging in Ornamental Shrubs: An Application in Rose

Plant tagging using radiofrequency identification (RFID) microchips is attractive for ornamental shrubs, such as rose (Rosa spp), due to their high market value, wide distribution, health certification system, and numerous uses Differently from other woody species for which methods of microchip implantation have been tested, rose tagging requires the possibility of insertion within canes of less than 10 mm diameter, such as those typically found in the rose nursery setting Moreover, the possibility of tagging after grafting without changing common plant production procedures and aesthetic value are important considerations Toward this ami, a new methods of microchip insertion was developed To test its effects on roses, two cultivars were subjected to a tagging procedure, and histological observations of tic sues around the microchip and growth analysis of plant canes were performed Microchip implantation did not cause xylem necrosis in 8 to 9 mm diameter canes, but in lower diameter canes wilt of the lateral shoot and detriments in growth were observed compared with control plants The tagged roses were tracked by a database developed for rose information, held log, and botanical sheet retrieval Our findings suggest that rose plants can be safely tagged with a RFID micro(hip following suitable selection of cane calliper as early as the nursery phase without negative effects on plant appearance