Nursery Seedling Stock Descriptions

The Wisconsin DNR’s Reforestation Program nursery grades and sells trees by age class. Trees are graded, using minimum size specification selected for each species, with the stem and root quality taken into consideration. Because of this, seedling size can be quite variable for some species. The minimum size for each species/age class is the smallest seedling deemed by reforestation staff to have a high probability of surviving and thriving after planting. In addition, some conifer, hardwood and shrub species are top-cut to approximately 14 inches in height to improve root-top ratios and facilitate shipping and handling.

Definitions

Age

• 1-0: Planted as seed, harvested after one season of growth
• 2-0: Planted as seed, harvested after two seasons of growth
• 3-0: Planted as seed, harvested after three seasons of growth
• Sdl: Mixture of 1-0 and 2-0 seedlings

Beginning Inventory Status

• Seedling inventories as of the first day of ordering; first Monday in October.

Inventory

• Adequate: Greater than 75% of projected demand
• Limited: Between 50% and 75% of projected demand
• Very limited: Less than 50% of projected demand

Narrative Terms

• Caliper: Diameter of a seedling's stem at ground level
• Sturdy: Caliper larger than typical for specific species
• Variable: Wide-ranging
• Vigorous: Nutrient loaded seedling
• Well balanced: Equal sized roots and tops
• Well rooted: Well developed tap and/or feeder and fine roots with ample root hairs