Phytohormones Influence on the In-Vitro Regeneration of Saccharum Officinarum L. from Apical Meristem Culture

Growth regulators especially auxins and cytokinins are critical for plant in-vitro regeneration. The effect of these plant growth regulators on in-vitro propagation of Saccharum officinarum L (Sugarcane) was investigated. In vitro response of two different varieties of sugarcane (NCS 005 and NCS 008) to Plant Growth Regulators was obtained in this study. Formation of buds was obtained on shoot apical meristem when cultured on MS (Murashige and Skoog) medium supplemented with 0.1mg/l BAP (6-Benzylaminopurine). After two weeks of initiation, regenerated meristem was inoculated into MS (Murashige and Skoog) fortified with different concentrations and combination of cytokinins. Shoot multiplication was optimal on 0.5mg/l BAP + 0.25 mg/l Kin(Kinetin) for NCS 005 variety while for NCS 008 variety, no significant (P≥0.05) difference was observed between 1.5mg/l BAP and 1.5mg/l BAP +0.5mg/l Kin. The best root induction for in vitro derived shoots was obtained on 1.0 mg/l NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) and 2.0 mg/l IBA( Indole butyric acid) for both varieties of sugarcane within ten days of culture transfer. Successfully established plantlets showed excellent growth response when weaned under regulated green house conditions.