Genetic Advances Among Pines of the Northeast

A large proportion of forest genetics research in northeastern U.S. has been concerned with pines. Extensive provenance tests of Pinus strobus have provided useful information about genetic variation among and within populations in growth rate, winter injury, flowering, chemical constituents, and other traits. Much of the research has been aimed at developing varieties with improved resistance to white pine weevil and white pine blister rust. Research on Pinus rigida has been directed mainly at developing hybrids with P. taeda. Referred to as "loblollies for the North", these hybrids from carefully selected parents appear to combine rapid growth with adaptation to cold winters and poor sites. One problem which needs to be solved is how best to produce hybrids in commercial quantities. In Pinus sylvestris genetic variation of many traits and racial hybridization have been studied more extensively than in any other species. Christmas tree growers in the Northeast have been eager to apply research results in obtaining seed from better provenances, but have been reluctant to invest in long term selection and breeding programs. Seed orchards have been established with these three pines and several others, but progeny testing and advanced generation breeding have been quite limited. Relationships between tree improvement and forest industries are discussed in evaluating accomplishments and future prospects.

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Author(s): Henry D. Gerhold

Publication: Tree Improvement and Genetics - Northeastern Forest Tree Improvement Conference - 1981