In vitro microrhizome formation and its regeneration in zingiber officinale

Microrhizomes were successfully induced in Zingiber officinale and their in vitro and ex vitro conversion potential was investigated. The six weeks old axenic plants derived from vegetative bud culture induced microrhizomes with 78% response when transferred to LS liquid medium supplemented BAP (8.88μM) and Sucrose (7%). The average number, yield and average weight of microrhizome was found to be 5.4g, 2.65g and 0.49g respectively. The microrhizomes stored at 4°C for 12 months resulted in fairly good conversion response both in vitro and ex vitro conditions followed by development into complete plantlets without any significant loss of conversion potential. The protocol described in this paper is reproducible and shall definitely facilitate the utilization of this technique in propagation and conservation of Zingiber officinale Rosc.