Temperature Extremes

Temperature extremes limit growth and can cause seedling mortality. Conifer seedlings can tolerate temperatures up to 29 degrees F. at ground level. Small seedlings are more susceptible than larger, thicker barked ones.

Temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. (freezing) can damage or even kill non-dormant seedlings. Seedlings become increasingly resistant (hardened) to environmental stress as they become dormant in the fall. They gradually lose this resistance in the spring in their post-dormancy period.

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007