[Histonet] Substitutes for picric acid using crystal violet stains

[Craig Kallsen]

Dear List,

I am new to this and would like to stain phloem, xylem and cambial cells 
in citrus tree-trunk tissue in paraplast embedded tissue.  I have a 
protocol for using crystal violet stain that requires ethnolic picric 
acid in the procedure.  Is there a substitute for picric acid?  I am 
having trouble obtaining picric acid in  alcohol (as well as finding the 
price intimidating).