Optimizing Growth Regulator Concentrations for Cannabis sativa L. Micropropagation

Area of Science:

• Plant Biotechnology
• Horticultural Science
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Efficient micropropagation is crucial for rapid, large-scale propagation of elite Cannabis sativa L. cultivars.
• Optimizing plant growth regulators is key to developing effective protocols for shoot proliferation and root induction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an efficient micropropagation protocol for Cannabis sativa L. cultivars 'Cherry Soda' and 'Purple'.
• To evaluate the effects of meta-Topolin on shoot proliferation and auxins (IAA, IBA, NAA) on rooting.

Main Methods:

• Apical meristems were cultured on Driver and Kuniyuki Walnut (DKW) medium with varying meta-Topolin concentrations for shoot proliferation.
• Rooting was induced using different concentrations of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA), Indole Butyric Acid (IBA), or Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA), with a 10-day dark incubation period.
• Developed plantlets were acclimatized and transferred to soil.

Main Results:

• The highest shoot proliferation occurred on DKW medium without meta-Topolin (control).
• 5.0 μM meta-Topolin induced hyperhydricity in shoots.
• Optimal rooting was achieved with 4.0 μM Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) or a combination of 6.0 μM Indole Butyric Acid (IBA) + 1.0 μM NAA, following dark incubation.

Conclusions:

• A novel micropropagation protocol for Cannabis sativa was developed, enabling rapid multiplication of disease-free plants.
• The study identified specific plant growth regulator concentrations for optimal shoot proliferation and rooting in selected cultivars.