Propagation of Citrus reticulata via in vitro seed germination and shoot cuttings

Abstract

Seeds of Citrus reticulata were germinated efficiently when they were sown directly after their extraction from fruits harvested in January, and incubated at constant temperature (25°C). Seed drying decreased both the percentage of seed germination and the number of seedling per seed. Germination of seeds was better on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0.5 mg dm -3 benzylaminopurine (BAP) than in a soil. Shoot cuttings obtained from germinated seeds were subcultured on B5 medium supplemented with 1 mg dm-3 BAP, 0.5 mg dm-3 kinetin (KIN) and 0.5 mg dm -3 naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), where shoots grew and multiplied. They were rooted on half strength MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg dm -3 BAP, 0.5 mg dm-3 NAA and 1 mg dm-3 isobutyric acid (IBA). Rooting under light was better than under dark. Seedlings and shoot cuttings with roots were transferred successfully to the soil after three weeks of acclimatization.