Effects of X-rays on seed germination and growth of Scots pine (Pinus silvestris L.) seedlings of different provenience

The effect of ionizing radiation on germination of seed and growth of seedlings of Scots pine was investigated. Higher radioresistance of seed originating from the highland region was established. No difference was found in the investigated seed samples in the content of cysteine and content and composition of the chloroform-soluble fraction. Differences in compounds contained in the chloroform-soluble fraction and in the rate of phosphorus uptake were found in young seedlings of different provenience. They possibly are related to the difference in the ability of seedlings to regenerate the postirradiation damage.