Abstract

The present study aimed at developing a commercially viable protocol for in vitro corm production in saffron. Three-step sterilization process involving fungicides and sterilants ensured 94% clean viable cultures. Plant growth regulator (PGRs) ensuring initial bud sprouting, direct shoot regeneration from the base of the sprouted bud and cormlet production from multiple shoots have been standardized. MS Media supplemented with 0.5 mg/l naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 1.5 mg/l 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) ensured maximum bud sprouting in September with direct multiple shoot primordia initiation on 6.5 mg/l BAP in November. 6.5 mg/l BAP + 0.2 mg/l NAA resulted in maximum shoot proliferation (24); however, at higher concentration, the PGRs were detrimental in arresting the growth. Viable shoot clumps established maximum in vitro corms in April after sub culturing on growth retardant (CCC) at 0.25% supplemented with 9% sucrose. Subculturing of non flowering in vitro corms on growth retardant with sucrose eliminated season dependence of in vitro protocols in the 2^nd cycle of protocol. Primary and secondary hardening before field transfer ensured 100% corm viability.

Key words: Kashmir, corm, in vitro, saffron.