An optimal protocol for in vitro regeneration, efficient rooting and stable transplantation of chickpea

A rapid, reproducible and efficient regeneration method was developed for chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) using single cotyledon with half embryonal axis as explants. MS medium supplemented with 4 ìM TDZ, 10 ìM 2-iP and 2 ìM kinetin induced 50–100 adventitious buds/shoots after 14 days of culture and elongated on MS medium supplemented with 5 ìM 2-iP and 2 ìM kinetin. Healthy, strong and 100 % rooting was achieved by exposing cut ends of the shoots to 10 sec pulse treatment with 100 ìmoles/ml IBA followed by their transfer to liquid MS basal medium within 10–14 d. 2–3 cm long shoots were most suitable for rooting. Potting-mixture with good aeration and lesser capacity to retain water was most suitable for achieving successful establishment of chickpea plantlets. Garden soil mixed with sand (gravel) and bio-manure in the ratio of 1:1:1 is most suitable for achieving cent percent transplantation success. Cent percent of plantlets got acclimatized, survived in the pots and showed normal growth, development, flowering followed by podding and seeds setting. Harvesting of seeds was done after the pods were fully matured and dry. In this communication, we have demonstrated for the first time that shoot length, pulse treatment of cut ends of shoots with 100 ìmoles/ml IBA and aeration of potting mixture are key factors for rapid micro-propagation and successful establishment of chickpea.