Biochar as an alternative to improve the in vitro environment for Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus Haw) and strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch) growing

Abstract

In vitro cultivation is widely used for micropropagation of several plant species; however, the increase in the gas concentration, such as ethylene gas, inside the growth vials can cause physiological changes. Thus, 4 experiments were carried out at the Federal University of Minas Gerais to evaluate the biochar use from sugarcane bagasse in vials with or without caps with porous membrane in the in vitro growing of pitaya (Hylocereus undatus Haw) (experiment 1) and strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch) (experiment 2) and evaluating in combination of the use of biochar from sugarcane bagasse and AgNO 3 in the in vitro growing of pitaya (experiment 3) and strawberry (experiment 4). The types of caps did not affect the growth and number of pitaya and strawberry; however, using caps with porous membrane obtained more magnificent roots dry matter yield. The addition of 4 g L -1 of biochar, regardless of cap type, favored the pitaya and strawberry roots' growth and development. AgNO 3 alone contributed to the higher length and dry mass of pitaya roots and greater dry mass of strawberry roots. Adding biochar decreases the AgNO 3 effects in vitro culture. Biochar is an alternative to improve the in vitro environment of plant species.