In vivo bulblet multiplication in LA lilium hybrids through scaling technique

Abstract

Lilium is a high value flower but difficult to multiply through conventional propagation methods. Therefore, an attempt has been made with an objective to multiply maximum bulblets through scaling under different storage durations and temperature conditions. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (factorial) consisting of different storage durations (0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks), type of scales (outer and inner) and temperature regime (4° and 2°C) on three lilium cultivars, namely/ Brindisi, Ercolana and Pavia. The results showed that bulblet production decreased from outer to inner scales and showed a positive correlation with the scale width. Nine week storage resulted in early bud sprouting and root initiation due to breaking of dormancy. However, size of bulblets were recorded more in the scales planted just after harvesting. Total weight of bulblets per scale was directly related to the number of bulblets per scale produced. Maximum number of bulblets (3.28) per scale was produced in the cv. Pavia followed by Ercolana (3.10) and Brindisi (2.18). Six weeks storage duration at 4°C was recorded best for cv. Brindisi. However, 9 week storage (4°C) was best for cvs Ercolana and Pavia with regard to maximum bulblet production. While, maximum rooting and root length were recorded in the cv. Brindisi followed by Ercolana and Pavia.