PLANTLET PRODUCTION FROM SOMATIC EMBRYOS OF PINUS-PATULA

Embryogenic tissue was induced from embryonic explants of Pinus patula, using intact female gametophytes containing immature embryos. Cone collections were carried out during the summer months from December to March and various parameters such as embryo length and the presence of cleavage and cotyledonary embryos were examined in association with embryogenic induction. Embryogenic tissue was initiated in 0.99% of explants. Maturation was successfully achieved on DCR2 (Douglas-fir Cotyledon Revised Medium), containing 1.3 mg L(-1) ABA. Maturation was most prominent on media containing 3% sucrose and L-glutamine concentrations of 2.5 g L(-1). Rooting (50-60%) was obtained on MSG6 (modified Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium), containing no plant growth regulators. Rooted emblings were hardened-off under misthouse conditions.