An efficient in vitro protocol for clonal multiplication of Ginger - var. Varada

An efficient, in vitro multiplication protocol was developed for Zingiber officinale Rosc., var. Varada through direct regeneration of vegetative buds. Multiple shoots were induced from vegetative buds on LSBM fortified with BAP (17.76 μM) with 96% initiation response. The repeated subculture resulted in rapid shoot multiplication at the average rate of 4-fold per culture. The well-developed multiple shoots formed roots on the same medium after 2-3 passages of subculture, thus eliminating the step of in vitro rooting. The statistical data pertaining to multiple shoot and root formation revealed highest mean number of 19.1 and 12.3, respectively. The regenerated plantlets were successfully established in the field with 86% survival frequency after few days of indoor acclimatization.