Optimizing in Vitro Runner Production and Survival of Strawberry (cv. Camarosa) Under Subtropical Conditions

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.), a high-value horticultural crop, is valued for its rich nutritional proile and global consumption. However, its commercial cultivation faces signiicant challenges, including susceptibility to viral, fungal, and bacterial pathogens, particularly when propagated via conventional methods. This study developed an eficient micropropagation protocol for the strawberry cultivar Camarosa, addressing key factors inluencing phenolic exudation, explants establishment, shoot proliferation, rooting and acclimatization under subtropical conditions. Explants sterilized with 0.1% HgCl₂ for 3 minutes showed the highest establishment rate (93.3%) and minimal contamination. Phenolic exudation was effectively mitigated using ascorbic acid (300 mg/l), ensuring higher explant viability. Optimal shoot proliferation was achieved with MS medium supplemented with BAP (3.0 mg/l) and NAA (0.5 mg/l), yielding an average of 5.4 shoots per explant with signiicant shoot elongation. Root induction was most successful on half-strength MS medium containing IAA (1.5 mg/l), which produced the highest root formation percentage (53.96%), maximum root length (4.80 cm), and a rapid rooting response. Acclimatization trials revealed cocopeat as the most effective potting medium, achieving a survival rate of 70% due to its superior water retention and aeration. These results underscore the effectiveness of micropropagation in generating disease-free, uniform planting material suitable for Bihar's subtropical climate. While signiicant advancements have been made, further research is recommended to reine the protocol for large-scale adoption and to explore genetic transformation techniques to enhance the crop's commercial viability. This study lays the foundation for expanding strawberry cultivation in Bihar, contributing to its agricultural diversiication and economic growth. Keywords: Strawberry, Growth Regulators, Shoot and root proliferation, Mass Multiplication, Acclimatization, Coco peat, vermiculite, perlite etc