Seedling morphology

The morphological characteristics of a stock type are best expressed in the seedling's size (height and root collar diameter). Select the size of seedling that overcomes the site limiting factors, then select the stock type that will produce a seedling of those dimensions. Three principles are used in choosing a stock type. First, more or longer growing seasons produce taller seedlings with larger root collars. Second, larger container sizes hold more growing media and produce seedlings with more roots, larger root collar diameter, and generally greater height (depending on container depth). Third, wider spacing in the nursery results in seedlings with more branches, foliage and larger root collar diameters.

© 1999 B.C. Ministry of Forests,
Nursery & Seed Operations Branch

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