Pine breeding. Any experts?

[Lorax69]

Good evening,
I'm in the Tuscaloosa Alabama area. I'm a forestry contractor doing controlled (CMP) breeding of loblolly pine. I have a few observations of the current season I'd like to bounce off of some experienced folks. 
1. Are you seeing normal flower/catkin production this year?
It seems in our orchard that flowers have only been prevalent in the top 15-20% of the canopy. Catkin production is 80% of the tree. 
2. How many times are you shooting pollen to the flowers, and how far apart?
I'm thinking twice just isn't enough to catch all of the variability I'm seeing in the flowers. Stage 2-4 on most trees. 
3. How much do you feel temperature has to do with seed set?





I'm thinking you may have a section for these posts, but I figured general was an ok place to start. 
Thanks for any responses. 
Devin

[firefighter ontheside]

Welcome aboard!  I don't have any answers for you, but I'd recommend the "Ask the forester" section for your question.

[Texas Ranger]

50 years since I did any of that, so, cannot help, but welcome to the forum.

[barbender]

I've heard of "bull" pine, is this what they would be needed for?😁