Flotation in ethanol affects storability of spruce pine seeds

Abstract

Flotation in 95-percent ethanol quickly separates full and empty seeds of spruce pine (Pinus glabra Walt.) without reducing viability measured soon after treatment. Results of two studies reported here, however, indicate that soaking in ethanol causes viability of the seeds to decline rapidly in storage. This phenomenon led to the enormous conclusion that spruce pine seeds are difficult to store. If the seeds have not been soaked in ethanol, their viability can easily be maintained for 1 year, and probably longer, under the currently recommended storage conditions for southern pine seeds.

Citation

Barnett, James P. 1967. Flotation in ethanol affects storability of spruce pine seeds. Tree Planters Notes 21(4):18-19.