A Correlation of Stem Sugars, Starch, and Lipid with Wood Formation In Eastern White Pine

Abstract

Starch, reducing and nonreducing sugars, and lipid in the phloem and cambial region of forest-grown eastern white pine ( Pinus strobus L.) were determined during a growing season. Metabolite contents were correlated with rate of tracheid production, rate of total cell wall production, and appearance of latewood. About half of the total cells and half of the cell wall volume were formed during the period prior to mid-June, the period in which large stores of starch and lipid were depleted. Forest Sci. 18:178-183.