The quality of Pinus taeda seedlings, produced in different types of containers, was evaluated based on root regeneration potential (RRP), to obtain seedling production with high survival rates and initial growth after planting. The study was conducted under greenhouse conditions, using five treatments: a) pressed blocks with 10 cm; b) 7 cm pressed blocks; c) bare root; d) D48 tubes (lower density); and e) D96 tubes (higher density). RRP in aquariums and boxes, was evaluated using the following parameters: a) total number of roots regenerated in aquariums; b) total number of regenerated roots > 1 cm in aquariums; c) total length of roots regenerated in aquariums and boxes (cm). Seedling survival and initial growth were evaluated by measuring height of the aerial part and stem diameter at ground level. RRP was found to be a reliable physiological parameter to determine the quality of Pinus taeda seedling and to predict its performance in the field. Total length and number of new roots > 1 cm showed significant correlations with the performance of the seedlings in the field. The Pinus taeda seedlings showing better quality for all the studied parameters, and field performance 24 months after planting were produced in 10 cm pressed blocks. The lowest averages for all parameters evaluated were observed in seedlings produced in tubes.
Pinus taeda; root regeneration potential (RRP); seedlings
