In vitro multiplication and microrhizome induction in Curcuma aromatica Salisb.

Shoot multiplication and plant regeneration was achieved from freshly sprou ted shoots of Curcuma aromatica on Murashige and Skoog's medium supplemente d with BA alone (1-7 mgL(-1)) or a combination of BA (1-5 mgL(-1)) and Kn ( 0.5-1 mgL(-1)). A concentration of 5 mgL(-1) BA was optimum for shoot multi plication and rooting of shoots. The regenerated plants grew profusely on t ransfer to liquid medium. In vitro raised plants were successfully establis hed in the field. Microrhizomes were induced at the base of the in vitro de rived shoots upon transfer to medium containing various combinations and co ncentrations of sucrose and BA and grown under varying photoperiods. MS bas al medium with 5 mgL(-1) BA, 60 gL(-1) sucrose and an 8 h photoperiod was o ptimum for induction of microrhizomes within 30 days of culture. Harvested microrhizomes stored in moist sand in poly-bags sprouted after 2 months of storage at room temperature. For in vitro storage, microrhizomes were grown in medium containing 0.1 mgL(-1) BA. Microrhizome formation was found to b e controlled by the concentrations of BA and sucrose as well as photoperiod during culture.