Multiple shoot induction to increase the biomass of Napier grass
Napier grass is an important bioenergy and forage crop that is propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Each node contains a single axillary bud, which normally develops into one shoot or tiller after planting. During the establishment year, the limited number of tillers results in relatively low biomass production. As plants mature, tiller numbers increase substantially, leading to significantly greater biomass and yield in the second year and thereafter. Because tiller number is strongly and positively correlated with biomass production, enhancing tillering is an effective strategy for increasing crop productivity. Our team has developed a novel propagation technology that overcomes the conventional "one bud–one shoot" limitation. This technology enables a single axillary bud on a stem cutting to simultaneously produce two to five shoots, thereby substantially increasing tiller number, biomass yield, and carbon sequestration potential. The method requires no chemical treatments or plant growth regulators, making it simple, safe, and cost-effective. It is applicable to diverse Napier grass cultivars without altering their genetic background or agronomic characteristics. In addition, this technology significantly shortens the time required for large-scale propagation, improving the efficiency of seedling production and accelerating field establishment. Beyond Napier grass, the method has broad applicability to other vegetatively propagated crops with nodal axillary buds, including sugarcane, bamboo, and related species. By enhancing propagation efficiency and biomass production while preserving varietal integrity, this technology offers considerable potential for forage production, renewable bioenergy, carbon sequestration, and sustainable agricultural development.
