Field Storage
The Ontario Tree Seed Facility encourages shipments of the cones as soon as possible. If the collected species are needed to be stored before shipping, the cones should be stored in a cool, dry and well ventilated area. This method of storage prevents heating of the cones which can cause them to open. It also prevents the cones from molding. This can cause significant reduction in seed viability and vigour. A good place for storage that meet these qualifications is a garage or basement.
When cones are collected during late summer and early fall, storage of the cones is different than the above described. These species carry a high amount of moisture, which can create the cones to heat or grow mould. The best way for storage is to place them in small mounds or thin layers for short periods of time. Be sure that space is left for the cones to expand as they dry out. If this is not done, the cone scales may become set, making extraction difficult.
The small mounds or thin layers should be raked or stirred on a daily basis prior to shipping to encourage even drying of the cones and to prevent cones from clumping together.
If the species collected is in berry form, such as Nannyberry, High-Bush Cranberry and Red-Osier Dogwood, field storage is not encouraged. If immediate shipment is not possible, berries should be placed in tubs of cold water for no more than three (3) days after collection. The fruit must be kept moist to maintain the viability of the seed.
Shipping Methods
Cones can be shipped in burlap bags. The bags should be filled 3/4 full to allow the cones to move and continue to dry while in transit. Take care to ensure that the bags are properly identified with the shipper name, species and Seed Zone in which the cones were collected. (See Figure 1 for an example shipping tag)
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Example of shipping tag
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The majority of conifer species, (with the exception of Jack Pine), are processed during the next months after collection, (January to March). It is required to have all conifer collections shipped to the Ontario Tree Seed Facility by December 15th to ensure processing is completed for the following year.
Jack Pine can be shipped on a year round basis for processing. Any Black Spruce cones that have been collected after December should arrive at the Ontario Tree Seed Facility no later than April 30th for processing.
When shipping berries, they should be placed in secure plastic bags inside burlap bags or cardboard boxes. Do this just prior to shipping because the berries should not be left in the bags for extended periods of time. The juices from the berries may ferment and heat, damaging the seed. Again, ensure that each shipment is properly identified with the shippers name, species and Seed Zone in which the berries were collected.
For more detailed information about storage and/or shipping, contact the Ontario Tree Seed Facility.
