Avoid Common Planting Mistakes
During a recent ArborGen webinar, “What You Don’t Know CAN Hurt You,” Reforestation Manager Jason Watson discussed everything from knowing the type of genetics you are planting to how they are planted. Reforestation costs are the landowner’s primary forestry investment during a timber stand’s life. Good seedling survival sets the stage for the next forest’s productivity and the landowner’s returns on investment.
Once you have decided what to plant, you may often leave the planting to someone else. But just as important as you are involved in what to plant, ensuring the seedlings are planted correctly will be crucial to survival. Proper supervision of your tree planters, whether by you, your consulting forester, or a tree planting contractor, is vital to successful reforestation.
Your tree planter must handle bareroot and containerized tree seedlings carefully from the time they are harvested at the nursery until they are transplanted in the field. Make sure you or your contractor monitor environmental conditions and adjust field operations to optimize your seedling survival. If you are a TreeLines subscriber, you know ArborGen often sends out weather warnings and updates during planting season to ensure you are aware of changing conditions. We also work closely with the forestry co-ops to share information they may be publishing.
Your success is our success. Below are 8 Tips to Ensure the Best Survival and a few more planting mistakes to avoid (see the illustrations below). By following these tips, you enhance the likelihood of successful planting. Remember that ArborGen Nurseries and Reforestation Advisors are ready to help you with your questions.
More than green side up, your seedlings’ 1st-year of survival is not enough. This is a significant financial investment, and getting your seedlings off to the best start possible is essential.
Jason Watson will be hosting another webinar on reforestation in November. Watch for additional information.
8 Tips to Ensure the Best Survival
Too Loose
A firm pull on one needle cluster moves the plant.
Excessive Tap Root Pruning
Pine seedling roots should not be pruned shorter than 5". Hardwood seedling roots should not be pruned shorter than 6".
Not Erect
The taproot should not be planted at more than 30˚ from perpendicular.
Have questions about planting?
Ready to schedule your seedling pickup or delivery?
The Practice of Science and Art
Charles Purtle, an experienced Arkansas forest landowner, discusses the importance of relying on your Reforestation Team. Watch the video below.
Handle Your Seedlings with Care!
Handling your seedlings properly is just as important as planting them properly. Get some great pointers from Jeff Smith of Scotch Land Management & Plywood and Paul Jeffreys, PhD Reforestation Advisor. Watch the video below.
Get in touch with a Reforestation Advisor to explore your options!
Austin Heine
North Carolina & Virginia
910-660-3209
Greg Hay
Arkansas, Northern Louisiana, & Oklahoma
501-350-4217
Paul Jeffreys, Ph.D.
Alabama & Northern Mississippi
Manager Special Projects & Sustainability
205-712-9582
Drew Fasano
South Carolina & Northern Georgia
843-520-6865
Blake Sherry
Florida, Southern Georgia, & Southern Alabama
912-433-5407
Kylie Burdette
U.S. Sales Manager / East Texas and Southern Louisiana
864-650-4454
Jason Watson
Director, U.S. Sales
404-840-7489
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