The Effects of Elevated Post-Storage Temperature on the Physiology and Survival of White Spruce Seedlings
The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of elevated temperature and exposure time on the physiology and survival of post cold stored white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss.) seedlings, and whether such effects could be detected quickly physiologically prior to planting. Foliage and root temperatures lagged behind ambient temperatures after transfer from storage (-2?C), to thawing (5?C), and from thawing to heat treatments (10, 20, 30, 40?C). Although no visible seedling damage was apparent after 12 h at 40?C, damage was 32% after 24 h. Seedling mortality was 48% after 48 h, and reached 100% after 72 h. At 30, 20 and 10?C no seedling mortality was observed for 24, 72 and 96 h respectively. Root Growth Capacity was poor in treated seedlings showing poor survival after planting. Seedling mortality of over 10% from elevated temperatures may be detected in about 24 h from specific conductivity of tissue leachates. This test, however, does not predict significant non lethal heat stress tissue damage of seedlings prior to planting. Exposure of seedlings in boxes to temperatures above 10?C is not recommended.
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Author(s): Wolfgang D. Binder, P. Fielder
Publication: National Nursery Proceedings - 1988
Event:
Combined Meeting of the Western Forest Nursery Associations
1988 - Vernon, CAN
