Macro- and Micro-Propagation of Azadirachta indica

Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) native to Indian sub-continent is important multipurpose tree species. Azadirachtin obtained in maximum amount in neem kernels find maximum uses in insecticidal and pesticidal formulations. Neem seeds do not store well and their viability falls rapidly after two weeks. The potential for bulking up of high genetic gain with in short period at an early age favours the operational use of vegetative propagation. The present study was initiated on ischolar_maining of stem cuttings with two separate experiments with different concentrations of auxins (IAA and IBA) 1000 to 4000ppm for 10 seconds and 100 to 400ppm for 12 hours dip. Also, 600,800 and 1000 ppm IAA and IBA were used for air layering. In micro-propagation, nodal segments were used as explants. Different media combinations were tried for producing multiple shoots and ischolar_maining. The 1000ppm IAA (quick dip) and 100ppm IBA (long dip) produced maximum ischolar_maining 63.75 per cent and 57.50 per cent, respectively, under controlled conditions, while the untreated cuttings did not produce ischolar_maining. The maximum number of ischolar_mains per cutting and total ischolar_main length (17.00 and 169.00 cm, respectively) in 1000ppm IAA and (12.51 and 169.25 cm, respectively) in 100ppm IAA was noticed. In general, ischolar_maining in neem cuttings decreased with increase in concentration of auxins. Propagation through stem cuttings with auxin treatment under open nursery conditions was not successful even during spring season. In micro-propagation, maximum explant establishment (77.50 %) was in MS medium (1^st stock half ). Maximum multiple shoot induction was recorded on medium MS+0.5 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l Kin. Media with MS +0.5 mg/l IBA gave maximum ischolar_maining and vermiculite mixture produced best results for the hardening of plants. Preliminary studies on micro-propagation were successful and needs more efforts to develop the protocol for mass production of genetically superior material with more azadirachtin content for commercial exploitation.