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Determining the Correct Planting Depth For Container-Grown Longleaf Pine Seedlings

Informally Refereed

Abstract

The Longleaf Alliance installed four planting-depth studies from 1998 to 2002 to determine the optimal depth for container-grown longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) seedlings. Results indicate that deep planting significantly reduced seedling survival and growth. Results also indicate that longleaf is very tolerant of shallow planting whereby the plug is exposed at the time of planting, thus discrediting the “wick” theory. Planting-depth guidelines for most States may be incorrect. Emphasis should be shifted from depth of the plug to height of the terminal bud above the soil surface.

Parent Publication

Citation

Hainds, Mark J. 2004. Determining the Correct Planting Depth For Container-Grown Longleaf Pine Seedlings. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–71. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 317-318
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/6680