In Vitro Propagation of Virus Indexed Gisela-5 (Prunus cerasus x Prunus canescens) - Clonal Cherry Rootstock

In the present investigation, a technique for in vitro propagation of Gisela-5 (Prunus cerasus x Prunus canescens)- cherry rootstock has been developed. Maximum in vitro establishment was achieved during the month of July and February. Treatment with 0.1 per cent HgCl2 for 5 minutes was found to be the best for surface sterlization. Maximum in vitro establishment of explants (70%) was achieved on MS medium fortified with 0.5 mg/l BA and 0.5 mg/l GA3. Highest multiplication rate of 1:5 was observed on MS medium supplemented with five different concentrations and combinations of BA, GA3, IBA and Kin. Shoot multiplication rate and shoot length showed an increase with the increase in number of subculturing passages which increased to a maximal of 1:9 and 6 cm after third and fourth passage. Best rooting of 18.20 per cent was observed in one step procedure whereas, maximum rooting (53.33%) was observed in two step procedure of rooting, Rooted plantlets were transplanted in sterilized sand for hardening and kept in the glasshouse, where 90 per cent survival was observed after 4 weeks of transfer. In vitro mother cultures were indexed for Cherry leaf roll virus, Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus and Prunus necrotic ring spot virus using DAS-ELISA procedure. All the tested samples showed negative results for the presence of these viruses, thus ensuring the production of healthy planting material.