The Target Seedling Concept: Implementing a Program
The Target Seedling Symposium in 1990 (Rose et al) covered a range of topics surrounding the target seedling concept. The usefulness of stock type designations was found to be less than worthy where there is a necessity to set criteria for reforestation success. Height and stem diameter were found to be useful target traits in seedlings, but these traditional measures of quality require support from other seedling traits in order to be useful. Root growth potential was not found to be quite as useful in pinpointing reforestation success as previously thought. Root system size was clearly shown to greatly enhance the ability to quantitatively assess quality. Mycorrhizae play an important role in reforestation success in some areas and their presence or absence can have subtle impacts on how seedlings perform. Bud dormancy and cold hardiness in temperate tree species can have profound impacts on seedling field performance Seedling moisture status is key to lifting seedlings in spring and ensuring their ability to survive the first few weeks after outplanting when new roots are being formed. And lastly, mineral nutrition is a vital link with reforestation success. Seedlings sent to the forest with nutrient imbalances are likely to suffer growth set backs even when environmental conditions are good. Seedling quality testing using the above mentioned traits is an integral part of all of this and forms the basis for discovering which traits will work best as successful reforestation criterion.
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Author(s): Robin Rose, Diane L. Haase
Publication: National Nursery Proceedings - 1995
Event:
Northeastern Forest Nursery Association Conference
1995 - Mitchell, IN
