Optimization of bud induction in cotyledonary explants of Pinus canariensis

A method is described for using liquid pulsing as an alternative to the conventional induction protocol for Pinus canariensis. Using Day 0 and Day 3 explants, the best exposure time was 8 h and 4 h respectively, in a non-buffered 100 M N⁶-benzyladenine solution, followed by culture on half-strength Bornman's medium containing 3% sucrose and 0.8% Difco Bacto^R agar. With this procedure, 97% of the cotyledonary explants produced about 14 buds/explant. These results were comparable to a 14-day induction period on full-strength Bornman's medium containing 10 M N⁶-benzyladenine.