Cone Surveys

The early evaluation is used to determine whether a collectable crop is expected. Cone surveys should be conducted at the beginning of the summer of the collection, then just before the collection when specific trees will be selected. Usually the quality of seed produced during good seed crop years is better and the costs of collection are lower per bushel than for seed collected during poor years. At any time during cone development, the crop can be lost or reduced appreciably. Early surveys are no guarantee that you will have a collectable crop.

Conduct intensive cone surveys in the location where the collection is needed to determine the number of cones that are developing. Evaluate trees that are of desired species, in the desired seed zone and elevation band, and in the preferred stands.

• Methods
  
  
• Rating the Collection
  
  
• Evaluating Seed Quality
  • Methods
  • Sample Size
    
    
• Assessing Cone and Seed Ripeness
  
  
• Problems Associated with Immature Seed
  
  
• Methods for Evaluating Seed Ripeness
  • Crown Position
  • Cut Face Test
  • Indicators of Cone and Seed Maturity and Quality
    • Cone Color
    • Seed Development