Optimization of Micropropagation from Nodal Segments of Apple (Malus × domestica. Borkh) Cultivars Golden Delicious and Red Fuji

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to develop an effective micropropagation protocol of apple cultivar Golden Delicious and Red Fuji. The nodal segment was used as explants of both the apple (Malus × domestica. Borkh) cultivar Golden Delicious and Red Fuji, cultured on Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) media supplemented with 35 different combinations of BAP (6-Benzylaminopurine) and NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid). However, MS medium supplemented with 3.33 μM BAP alone was standardized for the shoot cultures of Golden Delicious. On the other hand combinations of 0.05 μM NAA and 4.44 μM BAP was employed for shoot multiplication in Red Fuji. These concentrations supported appreciable length of the micro-shoots. However, highest elongation in both cultivars occurred only when 0.53 μM NAA was used. Moreover, out of the different concentrations of NAA that were tested for Golden Delicious, only 0.53 μM supported highest rooting (average of 7.66 number and length of 22 cm) followed by 0.05 μM NAA where an average of 6.33 root number and 20 cm length were obtained. While Red Fuji showed no root induction in any of the concentrations of NAA tested in the present study. The developed protocols have the potential to be utilized for generation of disease-free, quality planting materials and also in crop improvement programmes.