Cone
and seed evaluations
The
TSC can assist its clients with
cone and seed evaluations before
or during cone collections. Evaluations
can provide guidance on collection
timing, pest incidence and an estimation
of filled seeds per cone or half-cone.
In an evaluation, cones and seed
are sectioned and assessed for potential
yield, seed development, pest activity,
and general condition. A brief summary
of results will be reported by phone,
fax, or e-mail.
The cone
and seed evaluation is provided free
of charge for seedlots extracted and
processed at the TSC. Please call the
TSC to advise that you intend to send
a sample of cones and/or seed for evaluation.
Send a minimum of 20 freshly picked
cones from 3-6 trees (preferably about
50 cones from 6 or more trees widely
distributed through the stand), loosely
placed in a cardboard box and forwarded
to the TSC via overnight courier. Remember
the results of an evaluation are only
as good as the sample submitted - ensure
it is representative of the stand. Do
not wrap or send cones in plastic as
the cones can overheat in transport
and not be representative of crop condition
in the field.
Cone
and seed evaluations are also standard
practice for seedlots that are processed
on site. This aids in identifying
pest problems and seedlots which may
have low germination or yield,
provides an estimate of collection
yield, and assists in identifying seedlots
where alternative conditioning or priority
seed extraction is necessary.
