<![CDATA[Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum remains a major constraint in emprit ginger cultivation, while conventional control strategies are often ineffective and limited by the narrow genetic variability of vegetatively propagated planting materials. This study aimed to induce putative polyploid lines in emprit ginger using colchicine and evaluate the resulting plants’ morphological, physiological, and disease response traits. A factorial randomized block design was employed with six colchicine concentrations (10–100 ppm) and two soaking durations (12 and 36 h). Morphological traits, pigment content, shoot development, germination, and disease response indicators (AUDPC, disease severity, and progression rates) were evaluated. Colchicine treatment significantly enhanced leaf area, plant height, and shoot number, while delaying germination in a dose-dependent manner. Colchicine-treated putative polyploid lines exhibited reduced disease severity and slower progression of bacterial wilt, particularly at moderate colchicine concentrations (10–20 ppm). Although ploidy level was not cytologically confirmed, the observed phenotypic responses are consistent with traits commonly associated with polyploid induction. The results suggest that colchicine-induced putative polyploid lines could offer a practical preliminary approach for improving growth and suppressing bacterial wilt in emprit ginger, thereby supporting the development of more resilient planting materials.]]>
