Micropropagation of Pinus taeda L. via axillary buds

Introduction Pinus taeda stands for productivity and quality of its timber [1]. Researches using biotechnology are of great importance and have been applied to the improvement of its timber and plantation [2]. The main method of Pinus propagation is by seeds, once the minicuttings depends on the season of the year or depends of juvenile material [3-5]. Thus, researches on micropropagation of Pinus taeda are currently a priority in Brazil [6]. Micropropagation is the best method for mass production of superior genotypes and represents a strategy for tree improvement and capture of genetic gains [7]. Studies on Pinus taeda micropropagation by axillary bud proliferation are quite few. The purpose of this study was to develop a protocol for micropropagation of this species from juvenile material.