Indirect organogenesis in ginger

Abstract

Indirect organogenesis was attempted in two ginger cultivars viz., Maran and Rio-de-Janeiro. Rhizome buds and various parts of in vitro adventitious bud regenerants viz., pseudostem, shoot tip, folded and unfolded leaves were used as explants. Shoot tip was identified as the best explant for callusing. Half-strength MS medium supplemented with 1.00 mg l-1 2,4-D recorded the highest callusing (56.37%) and callus growth (CI - 55.11). Halfstrength MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg l-1 BAP was found ideal for shoot morphogenesis (38.46%) and rooting. The cultivar Rio-de-Janeiro recorded higher callusing (44.01%), callus growth (CI - 38.59), early (26 days) and high shoot morphogenesis (39%) and high rate of shoot proliferation. The cultivar Maran was found better for root characters like number and length.