Effect of Ethephon on the Formation of Traumatic Resin Ducts in Pinus merkusii Seedlings

Pinus merkusii shows great potential as a resin-producing wood in Indonesia, with the global demand for pine resin reaching 1 million tons annually. This study investigated the effect of ethephon on the anatomical properties of P. merkusii, particularly the resin duct that affects resin productivity, to increase the efficiency of pine resin tapping. Ethephon was mixed with Vaseline to create concentrations of 0%, 2%, 4%, and 8% and then applied to the seedlings at 0.5 g for 3 and 6 weeks. The results showed that various ethephon concentrations significantly increased the frequency, diameter, and proportion of the traumatic resin duct, as well as ray frequency, where 8% of the ethephon concentration yielded the best results. Furthermore, the treatment duration from 3 to 6 weeks significantly increased the proportion of the traumatic resin ducts, ray frequency, and ray height, where the 6 weeks showed the best results. The results indicated that ethephon promoted the formation of traumatic resin duct formation in P. merkusii seedlings, which has a strong correlation with resin production and could potentially increase future resin productivity. © 2025 Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa. All rights reserved.