Reforestation Toolbox: Handling in the Field, Care of Seedlings in the Field

Care of Seedlings in the Field

When you are out in the field planting:

Move bagged seedlings directly from the box to planting bags. Place seedlings vertically, with tops up, in planting bags. Do not overload planting bags. Do not double stack seedlings in planting bags, even if the seedlings’ tops are only 6 to 8 inches high.
Do not try to carry more seedlings in planting bags than can be carried and removed without injury, or that can be planted before they become too hot or dry out. Once seedlings are placed in bags, they must be planted and must not be returned to storage.
Expose only the tops of seedlings in planting bags. Loosen the wrap just before planting to allow seedlings to be extracted easily from the bundles.
Do not remove a seedling from the planting bag until the planting hole has been opened.
Remove seedlings gently from the planting bag one at a time, to prevent root stripping or other injury, then quickly and gently insert the seedling in the planting hole.
Plant tree seedlings without further root or top pruning, or culling. If pruning or culling appears necessary, or if you see mold, dry roots, evidence of injury, or dying seedlings, report the condition immediately to the contracting officer or the planting foreman.
Plant summer-delivered seedlings as promptly as feasible, because they are not conditioned for storage.