Factors affecting in vitro propagation of Momordica balsamina: a medicinal and nutritional climber

A protocol was developed for multiple shoot induction in a climber with highly medicinal and nutritional values i.e. Momordica balsamina (Cucurbitaceae). Effects of various factors on micropropagation were also studied. Addition of BAP at 1.0 mg/l in MS medium stimulated proliferation of shoots with 6-8 coefficients from the axillary buds. Low concentration of activated charcoal (0.2 %) promoted shoot elongation and reduced callus formation. The combination of 1.0 mg/l BAP and 1.0 mg/l KN promoted shoot elongation and proliferation. NAA proved to be more effective in inducing higher number of roots per shoot than IBA. The plantlets raised in vitro were acclimatized in green house and successfully transplanted to natural condition with 85 % survival. The present investigation showed that direct regeneration of M. balsamina offer a good opportunity to use micropropagation technique as a complementary tool for breeding and other applications.