Proper handling and planting techniques are critical to seedling survival. Native species are highly adapted to specific environmental conditions and can suffer significant losses if planted incorrectly or at the wrong time.
Careful Handling of Seedlings
Protect Roots at All Times
- Keep roots moist and shaded.
- Never allow roots to dry out. Even a few minutes of exposure to sun or wind can damage fine root hairs.
- Store dormant stock in cool conditions, ideally between 2°C and 4°C.
Minimize Handling Stress
- Handle seedlings by the container or root plug, never by the stem.
- Avoid squeezing root plugs.
- Keep seedlings upright to prevent stem bending.
Limit Time Out of Soil
- Only remove seedlings from trays or bundles when they are ready to be planted.
- Cover exposed bundles with damp burlap or a tarp.
Correct Planting Techniques
Correct Planting Depth
- Plant the seedling so the root collar, or root flare, sits at ground level.
- Planting too deeply can cause rot and oxygen deprivation.
- Planting too shallowly can expose roots to drying and frost damage.
Root Positioning
- Spread roots naturally when planting bare-root stock.
- Avoid J-rooting, which occurs when roots bend upward inside the planting hole.
- Ensure full contact between the roots and soil.
- Eliminate air pockets around the roots.
Timing Is Critical for Native Species
Native species are adapted to local climate cycles. Planting at the wrong time can significantly increase mortality.
Spring Planting
- Plant when the soil is workable but before active leaf-out.
- Spring planting helps reduce transplant shock.
- It allows roots to become established before the summer heat.
Fall Planting
- Plant after leaf drop but before the ground experiences a hard frost.
- This allows roots to establish while the plant’s top growth is dormant.
Risks of Improper Timing
- Planting too late in spring can cause heat stress and moisture loss.
- Planting too early in fall can increase the risk of frost heaving.
- Planting bare-root stock outside its dormant period can cause severe transplant shock.
- Planting during drought conditions can dramatically increase mortality.
Improving Seedling Survival
Native species are particularly sensitive to planting stress and timing. Proper handling, planting and timing can mean the difference between an 80 to 90 percent survival rate and significant seedling losses.