Optimization of callus culture and shoot multiplication of Asparagus densiflorus

The effects of different growth regulators on induction and growth of callus of Asparagus densiflorus cv. Sprengeri were studied. Calluses grew more rapidly on Murashige and Skoog basal medium supplemented with 5.4 mu M p-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (pCPA) and 4.4 mu M 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) (medium 1) as compared to the same medium with 11.3 mu M 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 4.6 mu M kinetin (medium 2). Calluses on medium 1 were soft and friable, whereas, compact, hard calluses originated on medium 2. Different concentrations and combinations of BA and/or kinetin were also used to study their effects on shoot regeneration. Kinetin was found to be less effective than BA in the initiation of shoots (1.8 shoots/callus). High numbers of shoots were produced in the presence of 0.4 mu M BA alone (3.3 shoots/callus). The addition of ancymidol (5 mu M) in MS with 0.4 mu M BA enhanced multiplication of shoots (9.8 shoots/explant) and also produced well-developed crowns.