Effects of macro elements and nitrogen source on adventitious root growth and ginsenoside production in ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer)

We investigated the effects on ginseng adventitious root growth and ginsenoside production when macro-element concentrations and nitrogen source were manipulated in the culture media. Biomass growth was greatest in the medium supplemented with 0.5-strength NH4PO3, whereas ginsenoside accumulation was highest (9.90 mg g-1 DW) in the absence of NH4PO3. At levels of 1.0-strength KNO3, root growth was maximum, but a 2.0 strength of KNO3 led to the greatest ginsenoside content (9.85 mg g-l). High concentrations of MgSO4 were most favorable for both root growth and ginsenoside accumulation (up to 8.89 mg g-1 DW). Root growth and ginsenoside content also increased in proportion to the concentration of CaCI2 in the medium, with the greatest accumulation of ginsenoside (8.91 mg g-1 DW) occurring at a 2.0 strength. The NH4/NO3-- ratio also influenced adventitious root growth and ginsenoside production; both parameters were greater when the NO3- concentration was higher than that of NH4+. Maximum root growth was achieved at an NH4+/NO3- ratio of 7.19/18.50, while ginsenoside production was greatest (83.37 mg L-1) when NO3- was used as the sole N source.