Defoliation-induced responses in peroxidases, phenolics, and polyamines in scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) needles

Effects of artificial defoliation on defensive needle chemistry in Scots pine (Pitus sylvestris L.) were evaluated with particular emphasis on peroxidases, phenolic compounds, soluble sugars, polyamines, and foliar nitrogen levels. The study was carried out on a nutrient-poor Scots pine stand with 8- to 25-year-old trees. Defoliation treatment consisted of repeated defoliation in two successive years with respective control trees. Defoliation was done before needle flushing by removing all mature needles. Guaiacol peroxidase activity increased in the needles after the first defoliation. The difference between treatments diminished towards autumn, and disappeared before the second defoliation in the next summer. After the second defoliation, the activities showed a similar trend. Apparently, peroxidases are involved in inducible chemical changes and recovery reactions that occur in the intact needles shortly after defoliation. After the second defoliation, total nitrogen concentration in the current year needles was about 20% lower, and free putrescine (a polyamine) concentration was 40% lower in the defoliated trees than in control needles. These changes indicate a loss of nitrogen due to defoliation. Specific phenolic compounds such as quercitrin, (+)-catechin, and two catechin derivatives increased in current year needles in response to defoliation. Accumulation of starch and sucrose in the current year needles of repeatedly defoliated trees may imply decreased assimilate transport. The results are indicative that changes in needle phytochemistry in response to defoliation accompany changes in needle nitrogen metabolism.