MICROPROPAGATION OF DALBERGIA SISSO ROXB

Abstract

During the present research work, a comparatively innovative technique was followed for the clonal propagation of Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.). Effect of different greenhouse media (sand, cocopeat and sawdust) was tested for the forcing of epicormic/ latent buds from the large branch segments taken from more juvenile portions of older trees. Softwood shoots were forced during the dormant season under various environmental conditions. The present investigation demonstrated that natural conditions favored the maximum (1.33) production of softwood shoots as compared to other laboratory conditions. However, cocopeat medium produced maximum (2.91) number of softwood shoots under laboratory conditions. Media also had a significant effect on softwood shoot production as sterilized cocopeat produced the highest (2.91) mean number of softwood shoots during the spring season. Rooting experiments with these softwood shoots under in vitro as well as glasshouse conditions, however were not successful as contamination was the major limitation.