Optimization of micronutrients for the improvement of in vitro plant regeneration of Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni

Optimization of micronutrients In the MS basal culture medium resulted into enhanced in vitro plant regeneration, chlorophyll content and biomass in Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni. The shoot bud induction response improved on medium with increased levels of MnSO4 (400 mu M), KI (10 mu M) and CoCl2 (2 mu M). Plant regenerated on higher levels of micronutrients showed significant increase in leaf chlorophyll content. The cumulative effect of all micronutrients at the optimum level in the composite medium also positively influenced the biomass and chlorophyll content of the plantlets.