Improved In Vitro Development of Talinum portulacifolium via Exogenous Salicylic Acid Treatment

Abstract

Salicylic acid (SA)-mediated variations in in vitro growth and biochemical attributes were investigated in micropropagules of Talinum portulacifolium. Shoots of T. portulacifolium were cultured on a standardized multiplication medium supplemented with varying concentrations of SA. The treatments involved two modes of SA incorporation: (a) addition of SA to the medium before autoclaving, and (b) supplementation with filter-sterilized SA after autoclaving. The mode of SA application did not cause any significant difference in growth performance. Lower concentrations of SA exhibited a stimulatory effect on shoot elongation and biomass accumulation, whereas higher concentrations inhibited growth. Moreover, total chlorophyll, protein, carbohydrate, and phenolic contents were significantly enhanced in cultures grown on medium supplemented with a low level of SA. The study concludes that SA, when applied at an optimal low concentration, effectively promotes in vitro growth and enhances biochemical activity in Talinum portulacifolium micropropagules, irrespective of its mode of incorporation.