Techniques for Pollinating Eucalypts

ISBN: 1 86320 151 3

Publication number: TR34

Publication date: 1995

Summary

This report describes the practical steps necessary to produce controlled cross seed of eucalypts as a means of tailoring plantations for increased vigour and desirable traits such as high wood density, high pulp yield, optimum fibre length, low extractives content and a higher content of essential oils. Illustrated with 29 plates, most in colour, the report takes the reader through the elements essential to produce seed for these purposes. Topics covered include materials needed for pollinating eucalypts, pollen collection and storage, pollen viability, selection of trees and branches, emasculation of flowers and isolation of the female parts from other pollen, transfer of pollen, seed production and collection, and record keeping.