Optimization of the Conditions for Acclimatization of Micro-Propagated Pineapple Propagules

Abstract

Pineapple is one of the major tropical fruit crop in Sri Lanka which has high demand in both local and export market. However, growers are unable to supply fresh pineapples to meet the current demand in the country due to improper propagation techniques. Micropropagation, is the most suitable method of propagation of pineapple which could produce healthy pineapple propagules in large numbers within a limited time period. Acclimatization (hardening) is a critical process during the micropropagation. If conditions-for the acclimatization were not optimized, tissue cultured pineapple propagules may not be able to survive under field conditions. The present study was carried out to investigate the most suitable container size, potting mixture and fertilizer type needed for the acclimatization process for pineapple cv. Mauritius propagules The optimum growth: leaf length, plant height, number of leaves and leaf width were observed when pineapple propagules were grown in potting mixture of compost: coir dust: burned paddy husk in pots with volume of 15 cm diameter and 20 cm height. The highest growth was observed in the pineapple propagules treated with all purpose fertilizer and lowest was observed when plants treated with Lilly fertilizer.