Seedling Handling

Between lifting and planting, seedling roots are exposed and vulnerable to environmental stress. Seedlings are particularly sensitive to temperature and moisture extremes during this time. Exposure of roots to drying conditions significantly decreases seedling survival. The critical length of exposure varies by seedling condition and the severity of the surrounding environment. (Warm, dry or windy conditions are the worst.)

Dormant seedlings can tolerate longer periods of root exposure than non-dormant seedlings. Short exposures (a few minutes) usually are not critical unless seedlings are not dormant, or if conditions are extremely droughty. In general, exposure of roots kills seedlings or decreases growth. Tolerance varies greatly depending on species also. The rule-of-thumb for conifers is "if the root surface dries enough to take on a gray color rather than the normal shiny wet look, the tree has suffered and is probably dead." Hardwoods, on the other hand, are much more forgiving, and often can come through a half day's exposure with no noticeable effects.

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007