Timely Removal

Initial manufacturer information indicated that rigid seedling protector tubes would photo- and thermal-degrade within approximately 5 years, eliminating the need for manual removal. On 400 bur oak seedlings at the Plant Materials Center at Bridger, Montana, more than 75 percent of the tubes did not show significant signs of physical deterioration after 6 years in use. In approximately 10 to 15 percent of cases, girdling damage was caused by the tube to lateral branches. Bridger is an area characterized by a high number of solar days, low relative humidity, and extreme temperature fluctuations--conditions that favor tube deterioration. Since several companies manufacture rigid seedling protector tubes, presumably with different formulations of materials, it is possible that product performance may vary. As a result, the performance of the tubes at Bridger may not necessarily be the same as other brands. Although the life span of rigid seedling protector tubes varies by tube, plant species, and site conditions, an average useful life appears to be approximately 2 to 6 years. Tubes should be inspected annually for condition and possible negative impacts to protected seedlings. Protector tubes and other types of shelters should be removed when they begin to interfere with normal plant growth or deteriorate and function improperly. Protector tubes are removed by pulling aged shelters apart with pliers or cutting the tube lengthwise with a pair of heavy-duty scissors. In some cases, embedded plastic must be removed with pliers or Vise Grips (Trade Mark), or a razor or knife may be needed to cut away bark tissue to facilitate plastic removal. Branches severely weakened or killed by girdling should be properly pruned to prevent portals of entry for insects and disease.

< Back to Seedling Protectors

Last Modified: 11/19/2007