The induction of somatic embryo development in cell cultures of alfalfa (Medicago sativa), celery (Apium graveolens), and lettuce (Lactuca sativa) was compared for 2,4-dichlorophenoxy-acetic acid (2,4-D) and various phenoxy acid growth regulators. Tests using a series of straight chain extensions to the phenoxy acid side chain indicate that phenoxybutanoic acid is active, whereas the phenoxypro...