In Vitro Propagation of Arak (Salvadora persica L.) Using Single Node Explants

Abstract

In vitro propagation using single node explants was carried out to develop a protocol for mass propagation of Arak trees. Different types of media: Murashige and skoog’s (MS) Gamborg (B5) and White were tested. MS and B5 media were found to give a better propagation results than White medium. When different concentrations of MS medium were tested MS gave the best result. Sucrose and glucose as a source of carbohydrate were also tested, and 2% w/v sucrose proved to be the best source at this concentration for good explant proliferation. A comparative study for the use of MS vitamins and Nitsch and Nitsch vitamins indicated the significance of MS vitamins formulation. Two types of growth regulators auxins (IBA and NAA) and cytokinins (BA and kinetin) were studied singly and in combination (IBA with BA). A combination of IBA and BA at 0.5 mg/l each was found to be better for single node explant while using auxins singly inhibited the growth. However the use of 10 mg/l AgNO3 gave better explant proliferation compared to other concentrations. To establish roots different types of auxins were tested and good rooting ability was achieved using 2 mg/l. NAA.