Banana (Musa spp.) micropropagation via shoot tips has already been established for many cultivars. However, protocol adjustments aiming to obtain more vigorous plants can be made. The aim of this work was to verify the nitrogen addition in the form of urea on different concentrations (0, 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg L-1) on shoot growth and rooting of Grande Naine, Prata Anã, Maçã and Nanicão cultivars. There was a positive urea effect on Maçã shoot growth, dry matter production and rooting up to 200 mg L-1 concentrations. Prata Anã and Grande Naine cultivars were not benefited by urea addition, while 800 mg L-1 concentration lead to death of microplants. However, Nanicão cultivar was more tolerant to higher urea concentrations, and 800 mg L-1 was optimal for its development. Moreover, urea induced shoot growth on 'Nanicão' at lower concentrations.
Musa spp.; cell culture; nitrogen sources
