Choosing High Quality Longleaf Pine Seedlings

Over the past several years, as demand for longleaf pine seedlings have increased, so too have the number of not so reputable nurseries. Although the Longleaf Alliance is not in the position to recommend one nursery over another, it is worth noting that we work closely with dozens of nurseries through their participation in our "nursery surcharge." As participants in this program, these surcharge nurseries are kept apprised of the latest advances in longleaf pine seedling research. For more information on this program, visit the Longleaf Nurseries section of our website.

Because a great deal of variability in seedling type exists and various degrees of seedling quality are found, the landowner is advised to contemplate the following tasks before buying and planting their trees:

  1. Choose the right seed source
  2. Determine the type of seedling the best suits your needs
  3. Visually grade the seedlings for quality when they arrive from the nursery
    1. Containerized
    2. Bareroot
  4. Assure proper seedling care and storage prior to getting the trees in the ground

 

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