An efficient protocol for in vitro clonal propagation of natural sweetener plant (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni)

Abstract

Leaf segments of Stevia were cultured on MS medium supplemented with varying concentrations (0.5,
1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mg/L-1
) of growth regulators (BAP and 2, 4-D). Ninety one percent aseptic cultures were
obtained when sterilized with 0.1% HgCl2 for 10 min. The highest amount of callus was obtained in MS
medium supplemented with1.0 mg/L-1
BAP+0.5 mg/L-1
2, 4-D, respectively. On the other hand, 2.5 mg/L1
BAP + 0.5 2,4-D showed lowest performance. Highest shoot was obtained in 2.0 mg/L-1
BAP. These
shoots was transfer into different concentration of IBA, NAA and IAA (0.5. 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0) used.
Highest rooting percentage was recorded on MS medium with 0.5 mg/L-1
IAA. The rooted plantlets were
transfer into mist chamber with relative humidity for 2 - 4 week after these plants were hardened and
successfully established in soil.