Seasonal Changes in Polyamine Content in Different Parts of Juvenile Spruce Trees (Picea abies (L.) Karst.)

1989

3 Abb., 1 Tab., 16 Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

5818

200050361

Free polyamine levels were measured in needles, shoot-axes and buds of juvenile trees of Picea abies (L.) Karst. on several dates from early spring to early autumn. High polyamine contents occurred in the buds before sprouting and in the most recent needles and stems. The total amount of polyamines per needle and per stem was further enhanced during the most intensive phase of shoot expansion, but the polyamine concentration decreased rapidly during sprouting due to dilution by increases in fresh weight. In older shoots, polyamine concentrations were generally lower and showed less seasonal variation. The possible role of polyamines in needle and stem growth, in controlling senescence and as biochemical indicators of stress conditions in conifers is discussed.