Plant diseases especially plant viruses cause significant crop decrease. Meristem culture is the most important method for virus free plant production. The aim of this investigation was to establish an effective protocol for callus induction and plant regeneration from meristem culture of potato (Solanum tuberosum L. var.premier) tissues. Calli were induced from axillary meristems of Solanum tuberosum L. (cv. Premier) on MS medium containing 2,4-D (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 mg/l) and kinetin (0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mg/l). MS medium with 2 mg/l 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/l kinetin, was effective for callus induction. Plantlets were regenerated after 9 weeks. In terms of shoot regeneration and its growth, 1 mg/l 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/l kinetin were the most effective treatment. Maximum number of leaves were produced by plantlets growing on MS medium containing 1 mg/l 2,4-D and 1 mg/l kinetin. High frequency of root formation and its growth were observed on the same medium.

Keywords: Potato, Solanum tuberosum, Meristem culture, Plant regeneration

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