Preplant Seedling Care
Bareroot Tree Seedlings are sensitive, living organisms requiring air, water and nutrients to survive and grow. They can be exposed to stress or injury during the harvesting, handling and planting operations. Once harvested, they have limited reserves of moisture and nutrients. Plant stress is cumulative and must be minimized if the tree planting project is to be successful. Moisture loss, temperature fluctuations, rough handling and improper storage are the primary factors contributing to planting failures. The nurseryman and the tree planter must do everything possible to promote good stock handling and planting practises.

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Plant your seedlings immediately, if possible.

2. Short term storage. Seedling can be stored in a cool, dry (but not below freezing) place, protected from the elements, for 2 or 3 days. Allow for air circulation and do not stack containers.

3. Long term storage. Refrigerated storage at 2-3 degrees C. can extend storage time for up to two to three weeks. Monitor stock conditions during storage. Deciduous species can be heeled-in loosely in a trench with their roots well covered with soil and watered regularly until required for planting. Plant the trees before the buds break.

4. On-site storage. Determine how trees will be stored at the planting site before picking up the seedlings. The trees must be protected from sun and wind at all times. When removing the seedlings from the package, dip the roots in water before placing the seedlings in the planting bucket.