Polymer Root Dip Increases Survival of Stressed Bareroot Seedlings

Abstract

Abstract Moisture-absorbing polymers are often used as a preplant root dip in some areas of the United States to protect bareroot seedlings against moisture loss and increase survival. There is little documentation in the literature on the effectiveness of these root dips. A series of plantings with red pine, jackpine, and white spruce tested seedlings dipped in Terra-Sorb® and Terra-Verde® versus undipped controls. In some of the plantings, seedlings were stressed by air-drying after dipping for periods up to 20 min before planting. Results indicated the polymers can increase survival especially in situations where the seedlings have been stressed. Use of polymers in planting programs should be considered as they offer a form of insurance against survival loss resulting from seedlings being exposed to drying during the planting process. North. J. Appl. For. 10(2):90-92.