Studies on Electrolyte Conductivity and Activity of Dehydrogenase of Chinese Fir and Masson Pine Bare-Root Seedling under Water and Cold Stress

The electrolyte conductivity and activity of dehydrogenase of bare-root seedlings of both Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.) and Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) under freezing and desiccation treatments were studied. The results showed that needle electrolyte conductivity of both species increase significantly after freezing treatment and there are no significant differences in needle electrolyte conductivity between the two species. The dehydrogenase activity (ARD) of fine roots of both Chinese fir and Masson pine was negatively correlated with increasing freezing and desiccation. The results suggest that both electrolyte conductivity and dehydrogenase activity could be used as quick indicators of Chinese fir and Masson pine bare-root seedling quality.