Optimizing minimal cytokinin levels to promote sustainable potato micropropagation

Potato micropropagation via tissue culture is essential for producing high-quality, disease-free planting materials and supporting sustainable production in the face of increasing climate change variability. Optimizing cytokinin levels is crucial for improving plantlet growth. This study was conducted from March to May at the Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Sebelas Maret University, to evaluate the effects of two cytokinins, 6-benzylaminopurine and kinetin, on the growth of two potato varieties under tissue culture conditions. A factorial experiment based on RCD with three replications was performed, using MS media with different cytokinin concentrations. Plantlet height, number of leaves, branches, nodes, and roots were measured after two and four weeks of subculture. Results showed that Bonito Agrohorti generally demonstrated better growth than Granola, especially in shoot elongation. 6-benzylaminopurine was more effective than kinetin in promoting plant height and branching, particularly at concentrations between 0.3 and 0.5 ppm. Similarly, BAP at 0.3-0.5 ppm enhanced root development, especially in Bonito Agrohorti. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing cytokinin concentrations for efficient potato micropropagation.