Exposure to Light

The full effect of exposing seedling roots to direct or diffused light is not known, but roots would not normally be exposed to light. The radiant heat that accompanies exposure to light can cause root hairs to dry quickly. Another effect may be the complicated relationships of carbohydrate translocation between shoots and roots. Exposure to light during tree storage and handling should be minimized as seedling photosynthesis and growth are related to light intensity.

The advice on exposure to light applies to bareroot seedlings and container seedlings that have been pulled and packed. Properly packed seedlings do not have their roots exposed to light. Seedlings in their original growing containers can be stored in the light.