Vegetative Propagation of Pines, Using Cuttings

SYNOPSIS Trials to examine the formation of brachiblasts (shoots derived from needle fascicles) from five pines and rooting of brachiblasts and auxiblasts (normal shoots) of eight pines are described. Variation in the ability to root, both between species and within half-rib families of the same species, is large. Combinations of a growth hormone, a fungicide and an energy source in a talc mix, used as a basal dip on the cutting can significantly improve rooting in most clones, but the technique will only be commercially viable if used on cuttings of clones which root easily. Provided easily rooting clones are identified, hedged to supply vigorous juvenile brachiblasts for cuttings and the most suitable rooting mix for each clone is used, the establishment of clonal plantations in pines should be as viable as it is for eucalypts.