Red and Far-Red Light Combined with Trans-Cinnamic Acid Enhances In Vitro Rooting and Reduces Callus Formation in Lavender

Abstract

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) is a valuable crop with diverse applications, but its in vitro rooting can be hindered by its sensitivity to natural auxins and it often fails to root due to callus formation. The current study investigates the effects of light spectra emitted by LEDs and the application of trans-cinnamic acid (t-CA) on the morphology, propagation, and rooting of lavender shoots in vitro. Initially, the influence of different concentrations of t-CA (0, 1.25, 2.5, or 5 µM) was evaluated under fluorescent light. The application of 1.25 µM t-CA was found to be the most effective in promoting root development while minimizing callus formation. Subsequently, the impact of different light spectra (fluorescent light and combinations of blue, red, and far-red monochromatic LED light) was explored. The combination of red and far-red (RFR) light significantly accelerated rooting and resulted in the most substantial increase in root number and length. Finally, the combined effects of 1.25 µM t-CA and RFR light were assessed. This combination produced the most favorable overall results, notably, a 4.3-fold increase in lateral root number compared to RFR light alone. These findings underscore the potential of optimizing both t-CA concentration and light spectra to enhance the in vitro propagation of lavender.