Growth and differentiation of callus cultures of Pinus

Abstract

Segments of hypocotyl and cotyledons of aseptically-grown seedlings of Pinus strobus L. (white pine) and P. echinata Mill (shortleaf pine) were used as explants for establishing tissue cultures. Growth and differentiation of callus were studied on a modified Murashige and Skoog's medium containing nutrients and plant growth regulators. Meristems below the surface of callus tissue of P. strobus could be induced on media supplemented with α-naphthaleneacetic acid alone or in combination with certain other plant growth regulators. Occasionally, differentiation of shoot buds also occurred on callus cultures. These shoot buds could be grown in vitro but roots did not develop.