Propagation Technology

The key technology Forest Genetics Cellfor Ltd employs is somatic embryogenesis, which enables 1) the storage of germplasm during the field testing phase and 2) the ultimate production of many genetically identical cuttings from a single seed of an elite family from control-pollinated parent trees. The fundamental first step of the technology is to split one embryo into two or more identical embryos, enabling some copies of the embryo to be stored in cryo-preservation, while others are taken through field testing. Subsequently, the best varieties are identified, and the cryo-stored embryos are extracted and multiplied through various forms of propagation. All resulting plants have the same genetic make-up, and no genetic engineering or modification has occurred.

The varieties are being developed through multiplication of cryopreserved, juvenile material, and subsequently using nursery stoolbeds to further multiply and produce rooted cuttings for sale to forest growers. We have formed alliances with top quality nurseries for assured production of Production Varieties to meet the needs of regionally distributed forest growers.

We also have an alliance with Ensis (formerly NZ Forest Research Institute) for both plant propagation and research services. Ensis has carried out the front-end tissue culture work required for production of plants through 2010, as well as providing nursery propagation services. In addition, we have won a Technology for Business Growth grant for R&D by Ensis and other providers. This grant is primarily aimed at reducing technical risks, and thereby obtaining greater cost efficiency of our plant propagation systems.

Mother plants have been established to date in two New Zealand locations, and cuttings from these plants are being raised at three New Zealand nurseries. Sales of several hundred thousand plants are projected for 2007 and 2008, and several million from 2009 onwards. In Australia, mother plants have been established at two forestry company nurseries.