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Field Storage
Storing Wrapped Seedlings
Seedlings that have been wrapped should be planted as soon as possible,
but there may be times when you will want to store them. The wrapping
process can initiate warming that increases physiological activity
in the seedlings and increases activity by micro-organisms. Micro-organisms
can damage wet, warm, foliage in a short time.
Follow these practices when storing wrapped seedlings:
- Do not store wrapped seedlings longer than 48 hours. Try to wrap
only those seedlings that will be planted each day. Even if it is
more expensive to wrap seedlings as needed, do so to ensure the seedlings’ survival.
- Do not store wrapped seedlings horizontally in the original shipping
bags and then reseal the bag. This will cause heating, aeration,
and disease problems. Water also may accumulate in the bottom of
the bag, drowning the seedlings.
- Store wrapped seedlings with tops upright and well aerated until
the seedlings are ready for shipment to the planting site. Temperatures
should be maintained at 33 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not allow
cold refrigeration air to blow on the tops of the seedlings because
it could freeze them.
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