Cellular components of the midstylar transmitting tissue of Prunus avium

Proportions of cellular components in the midstylar transmitting tissue of Prunus avium L., sweet cherry, were determined using the point interception method on transmission electron micrographs. Changes were measured during the development of the style when comparing pistils collected 1 week before anthesis with unpollinated pistils at the anthesis stage. Transmitting tissue was also examined 20 h after cross- and self-pollination. The results illustrate complex patterns of cellular development including changes in vacuolation, cell wall – intercellular substances, and starch. Other cellular components were also quantified and are discussed. After pollination, further cell wall – intercellular substances increases occur but no differences were found between cross- and self-pollination.