A portable stacking tray system was introduced as another method of shipping cones in 1989. This method improved biological disadvantages and handling concerns with cones that where picked with a high moisture content.
As shown in Figure 1, requested trays are shipped in the nested position. When shipped back, the trays are then returned to the Ontario Tree Seed Plant in the stacked position. (see Figure 2)
 |
| Figure 1 - Stack of nested trays for shipping |
Trays in the nested position. Maximum 10 trays per column (4 feet)
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| Figure 2 - Stack of loaded trays for shipping |
Trays in the stacked position. Maximum 10 trays per column (6 feet, 10 inches).
The appropriate identification, number of litres per tray, and respective of species needs to be included with each shipment. Please refer to the Volume Table to determine the amount of cones to be placed on each tray per species. If a species is not on the list, contact the Ontario Tree Seed Plant for shipping instructions.
It is important to allow smaller cones more breathing room for the post-maturation process. They tend to be packed tightly together, disabling the cones to open and encouraging heating of immature cones. All trays should be roughly filled half full with cones to allow for expansion as the cones open. Crowded conditions restrict the scales ability to open and they become set in an unopened or partly opened position, resulting in processing deficiencies.
|
Species
|
Volume in Litres
|
|---|---|
|
White pine (Pw)
|
40
|
|
Red pine (Pr)
|
40
|
|
Scots pine (Ps)
|
40
|
|
Austrian pine (Pa)
|
40
|
|
White spruce (Sw)
|
40
|
|
Black spruce (Sb)
|
40
|
|
Red spruce (Sr)
|
40
|
|
Norway spruce (Sn)
|
40
|
|
Hemlock (He)
|
20
|
|
Cedar (Ce)
|
20
|
|
Larch (La)
|
20
|
|
Europeon Larch (Le)
|
40
|
|
Japanese larch (Lj)
|
40
|
The tray system allows for natural air movement, thereby allowing for proper after-ripening to take place.
Prior to shipping, store filled trays in a protected, well-ventilated area. Stir cones frequently to prevent heating and moulding.
As stated in Cone Shipment Identification Seed Fact Sheet, all shipments of cones/fruit to the Ontario Tree Seed Facility need to be accompanied with the appropriate documentation.
For more information, please contact the Ontario Tree Seed Facility.
