seeking info on Pine reproductive structures.

[planetluvver]

I volunteer at a Chinese garden, and the gardener was candling (a form of pruning) a red pine tree. I then realized that I have no idea about the structures involved, and I would like to at least be able to talk sensibly about the structures.

For example, the gardeners hands were covered in "pollen." But I am not sure pollen is the proper term for this substance, since I only know the very basics about flowering plants. And it is possible that pollen is not the appropriate term for conifers.

But at least, it was interesting to inspect the various structures, and the pattern of new growth.

So, if you know of any good resources, please direct me. Googling pine reproduction was not a good search tactic, because many hits were about furniture. My other search strategies were more frustrating than enlightening. So I thought that perhaps I would throw myself on the mercy of the forum community!

[JackBean]

pine reproduction = beds from pine wood?

[plasmodesmata11]

look up that general, dare i say it, BRANCH of plants (haha, get it?)
they're called gymnosperms. that's a good keyword
hope that helps

[Orangistae]

Wikipedia's page on conifers has a pretty good general description of their reproduction, and there are more details under the entry for 'conifer cone'. And yes, pollen is the appropriate term.