Effect of different media and various explants on in vitro multi-plication of different cultivars of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)

The present studies were carried out with the objectives to develop protocol for multiplication of carnation plants in vitro. The medium MSC, containing MS basal salts (full strength) + BAP 1.0 mg + G A₃, 1.5 mg + NAA 1.0 mg per litre was found most effective for shoot regeneration form explant shoot tips for cultivars Cherry Frill, Dona Brecas and Pinto Yellow. However MSC₂ medium containing MS basal salts + BAP 1.5 mg+GA₃ 1.5 mg + NAA 1.0 mg per litre for culti var Impala was found to be best Shoot tips as explants exhibited higher percentage of regeneration as compared to nodal stem segments irrespective of the cultivars. However no shoot regeneration was observed from explants leaf segments and internodal stem segments. Highest proliferation of regenerated shoots from explant shoot tips was found on MSC₃ medium for cultivars Cherry Frill, Dona Brecas and Pinto Yellow, where as MSC₂ medium (with the same concentration of MSC, medium except BAP 1.5 mg) gave maximum proliferation in cultivar Impala. Highest number of shoots per explant was found on MSC, medium only in cultivar ‘Cherry Frill'. The shoot tips exhibited higher number of shoots per explant in comparison to the nodal stem segments irrespective of the cultivars.