Field conditioning

After the collection is complete, a conditioning or interim storage period of 0 to 4 weeks (Guide to Operational Time Requirements) is generally required to properly prepare the cones for transport to the TSC. This period is critical to reduce cone and seed moisture levels, mimicking the natural maturation process. This also reduces the risk of mold and heat damage which can seriously affect cone and seed quality, even during a relatively short transit time. Lodgepole pine cones are an exception and can be shipped immediately or held for greater than four weeks due to the serotinous nature of their cones. It is the one species in which cone sacks can be stacked without compromising seed quality. The only other species that can be shipped directly are western redcedar and western hemlock. These species exhibit low seed dormancy and if not conditioned properly then pregermination of seed is a possibility. These two species are priorities for Cone and Seed Processing.

Significant losses to cone crops occurred in 2004 from the coneworm (Dioryctria spp.). The significance of this pest is that it continues to feed after the cones have been picked while all other insects have completed their feeding by this time. The coneworm can therefore cause substantial damage following picking and infested seedlots should also be forwarded for immediate extraction with consideration given to shipment in a temperature controlled reefer.

Transporting cones and seed

When you call the TSC to schedule your shipment, we can recommend handling and transport procedures to preserve seed quality. For seedlots processed by a private extractory, the extractor will arrange for shipping seed to the TSC. Cones or processed seed arriving at the TSC must be accompanied by an application form for registration with information required under the Chief Forester's Standards for Seed use.

Receipt of cones or seed is on a first-come-first-serve basis, so it is important to establish clear communication with the TSC as soon as possible. In a light to moderate crop year, normally 1 to 2 weeks notice is sufficient; in a heavy crop year, more advanced notice may be necessary. Scheduling a tentative or confirmed date well in advance of shipping may better meet your needs for fast, efficient processing.

To ensure optimum seedlot yields and germinations, cones delivered to the Tree Seed Centre are recommended to not contain, by volume, more than 5% (or 10% for western redcedar, western hemlock and yellow-cedar) non-cone material or debris. It is recommended that cones received for processing, not contain by volume, more than 10% empty cones, old cones or cones badly infested with disease. Please call the Tree Seed Centre for information and assistance.