Beneficial use of lignosulfonates in in vitro plant cultures: stimulation of growth, of multiplication and of rooting

Abstract

Lignosulfonates (LIGNs), low-cost by-products from the paper industry, are already commercialized as fertilizers; they stimulate both vegetative and reproductive growths and fructification. LIGNs have been tested in in vitro cultures and here too, they improve shoot growth and vigor, and rooting of various plant materials. This study aimed at to extend the in vitro application of LIGNs at different developmental stages in order to increase the productivity of systems generating vitroplants. The present results showed the beneficial effects of various LIGN applications on growth of a tropical orchid, Phalaenopsis, multiplication of Saintpaulia ionantha and rooting of poplar and Sequoiadendron sempervirens shoot cuttings. One of the most interesting observations was the stimulating effect of Ca-chelated LIGN on growth of Phalaenopsis and on rooting of Sequoiadendron. The significant and reproducible effects of LIGNs at several steps of micropropagation of different plant materials represent a potential tool to improve quality without embarrassing side-effects.