Influence of explants type and plant growth regulators on In vitro multiple shoots regeneration of a Laurel from Himalaya

Abstract

Micropropagation in a Laurel, Bay leaf tree (Cinnamomum tamala Nees. & Ebrm.) was studied with an aim to select best explant and effect of plant growth regulators (PGRs) for multiple shooting. Various explants were isolated from three year old seedlings. Multiple shoots were induced through callus culture from petiole with nodal segment, shoot tip, shoot with inter-nodal segments and leaf explants on woody plant medium (WPM) supplemented with various plant growth regulators (BA, IBA and kinetin) alone as well as in combinations with varying degree of success in the following order: petiole with nodal segment>apical shoot>shoot with internodes>leaf. Petiole with nodal segment explant and PGRs combination of BI was found best for callogenesis (compact greenish white), shooting (4 fold) and rooting (100%). The petiole with nodal segments from in vitro developed plantlets could be induced again to produce a large number of harvestable shoots. Harvested shoots were rooted in vitro in WPM supplemented with plant growth regulators (PGRs). Similarly BI combination of PGRs showed the significant results in callogenesis, multiple shooting and rooting regeneration in all four types of explants. The plantlets were transferred to theromocol cups after which they were replanted into poly bags and then to field. These plants survived with over 70% success under field conditions and exhibited vigorous growth. This system could be utilized for large-scale multiplication of C. tamala by tissue culture. Further observations will be continued. (Nature and Science. 2009; 7(9):1-7). (ISSN: 1545-0740).