Early Testing of Loblolly Pine

Cones were collected from individual trees in natural stands of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) in southeast Texas. Seed from each tree were evaluated for characteristics such as size, weight, percent filled seed, germination time and stratification requirements. The percent filled seed, mold on the seed during germination, stratification requirements and growth in the nursery and greenhouse were used as criteria in a step-wise screening procedure. The selected families and controls were outplanted for future evaluations to determine the effectiveness of the screening procedure. Early results indicate that information gained from seed, germination times, and early growth, can be used to increase the proportion of fast growing families in the selected group.

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Author(s): Ernest M. Long, J. P. van Buijtenen, Margaret Wendel

Publication: Tree Improvement and Genetics - Southern Forest Tree Improvement Conference - 1977

Section: Session 1: Tree Breeding