Grow Seedlings Successfully
Growing seedlings requires the proper balance of supplies and techniques. With determination, successfully growing them is only a few shovels of dirt away. How to nurture a seedling into a plant varies from species to species. Some species are similar, however. Oak seedlings and pine seedlings, for example, are grown similarly. Multiple seedlings of any type should be tended to and sprouted, even if only one tree is desired. It is a natural occurrence that many of the initial plants will fail.
Depending on the type of oak seeds, a technique known as stratification may be necessary. Without it, the plant will not develop. Red oak seeds, for example, will only germinate after going through a deep cold. These seeds drop from their trees in the fall, nestling under the foliage on the excellent ground. Stratification is the replication of this natural occurrence. After determining if the oak species require stratification, the seeds must be placed in a dry, sealed zipper bag and stored in a refrigerator. Without this process, the seeds will never sprout properly.
How a seedling should be harvested depends on how the seed was planted
Ones grown in a plant pot must be carefully excavated and placed in their final location. Seedlings planted in an outdoor seedbed are easier to remove. In any case, the roots must be dug around and gently repacked in the desired location. Choosing a proper place for the young plant is another crucial factor in success. The area prepared must have full access to sunlight during the day and be free of any other large plants or vegetation. A hole about two feet deep should be dug into healthy soil.
Oak seedlings are ready for transplantation once the plants have grown at least six inches tall. Pine seedlings should be about six inches as well. At least three plants should be transplanted next to each other, increasing the chances of a thriving, growing tree. Not all plants are to be planted and grown at the same time. Oak seedlings should be planted in the spring, while pine seedlings should be planted in the fall.
Transplanted plants will need specialized care
Organic compost or mulch may be added around the early trunk for nutrition and to absorb excess moisture. The plants must be watered occasionally, if necessary, but nature generally tends to them from here.
