Transport, Storage, and Handling Tips for Conservation Seedlings Michael Kangas North Dakota Forest Service

3 Primary Causes of Seedling Stress Moisture Loss (desiccation) Exposure to temperature extremes Physical injury

Transporting Stock 3 Things to Consider: Temperature: Keep the trees cool. Keep the trees covered Enclosed trailer necessary; refrigerated trailer = optimal If forecast hot, transport during cooler morning hrs If stopping, park in shade Space: Do not over-pack trees Tightly packed trees can begin to heat up Time: Shorter = better Unload into cooler ASAP Do not leave trees in truck overnight

Storage Tips Temperature: between 34 and 38F Humidity: above 80% optimal Air Circulation is good Keep in nursery packages Package label: date monitor at 2 wks – mist roots Molds white – don’t worry too much black – may be problematic Minimize storage length. Longer storage results in mold and bud break

Planting Season in ND Late April until early June Get the trees in the ground – don’t wait Soil temp above 50F is ideal plant too early – desiccation plant too late – too dry Courtesy

Handling in the Field Keep trees cool, keep trees covered. Don’t use opened bales from previous day Root dip in water if stock stored over 15 days Never expose roots to open air & wind Avoid planting on hot windy days (plant in morning hrs if possible)

Machine Planting Are ‘all systems a Go’ on the tree planter? Shoe depth, packing wheels Keep tree roots moist on the tree planter Keep a bucket of water handy Gels? Can protect roots for 15 to 20 minutes Slow it Down! Speed Kills! Courtesy

Common Planting Problems Tree Care and Management – NRCS FOTG

6 Steps to Tree Planting Success 1. Right Tree, Right Site, Right Reason. 2.Follow proper tree storage and handling procedures. 3. Good Site Prep. 4.Keep good planting records 5.Follow up. Check survival and encourage replacements if needed. Identify problems and recommend solutions. 6. Encourage care by landowner

Final Suggestions Contact Towner nursery if tree survival problems arise. Share your ideas on tree stock needs with the nursery. Visit the nursery to learn more about the stock you are purchasing

Questions? Comments? Questions? Comment?