Development of a tissue culture protocol for rapid multiplication of cashewnut planting materials
Another key constraint in cashew nut production is inadequate supply of quality planting materials. The current methods of propagation involve use of seed and grafted seedlings. These methods are slow and hence it is not easy to disseminate large quantities of planting materials required to revive the aging plantations. One of the techniques that could be used for rapid propagations of suitable varieties is tissue culture. However currently there is no tissue culture protocol for propagation of cashew. The project proposes to develop a tissue culture based protocol for rapid multiplication of cashew nut planting materials. The main aim is to improve cashew productivity and hence positively contribute to increased agricultural revenues and food security for the farmers in the target region. The following sub activity is proposed:
- Laboratory evaluation and validation of propagation media for root and shoot regeneration
- Evaluation of hardening media for tissue culture plantlets
- Field testing (establishment) of tissue cultured plantlets
- Registration and roll out of protocol