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To insure the viability of the seeds collected, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1. For "orthodox" species, those seeds that poses the genetic ability to be dried and stored for long periods of time - yellow poplar, white ash, and flowering dogwood:

* Allow to dry slowly after collection (spread out).

* Provide good aeration, avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat.

* Transport in breathable bags, burlap or plastic weave. Do not use plastic shopping bags, as this will promote condensation. Onion and grapefruit netted sacks work well.

Basically, seeds should be allowed to dry out, as this will not impact their ability to germinate. If seeds are collected wet, or after a rainy period, more drying time may be required before seeds are placed in bags for delivery to the Forest Service Office.

2. For "recalcitrant" species, those seeds that require moisture to retain their viability during storage - northern red oak, and white oak:

* After you have harvested your acorns, you will need to separate viable from non-viable collected seed. Float testing in a large tub is ideal. This will clean, wash away insects, separate your harvest. Viable seed will sink while damaged seed will float due to internal air pockets created by insects, disease or age. Do not discard non-viable seed. Instead, feed the local critters.

* Do not let dry out, this will interfere with the seeds' ability to germinate.

* Float test from 24-48 hours. This will saturate viable seed and cause them to sink. If they are floated for longer periods, all seed, good and bad, can sink.

* Keep cool after float testing. Do not expose to direct sunlight or heat.

* Store in plastic shopping or refuse bags but do not close or seal bag. Leave open for air circulation. If seed is stored inside a dry environment, keep moist by misting with water.

In general, when collecting seeds, handle to avoid impact as these are living organisms. Please collect only seeds, leaving the dirt, leaves, and other debris at the site. Acorn caps can be removed.

Contact your D.N.R. forestry representative for immediate pick-up.

       The Forest Conservancy District Board for Baltimore County

9405 Old Harford Road

Baltimore, Maryland 21234

(410) 665-5820 

Email Robert Prenger ....... rprenger@dnr.state.md.us

 Melvin Noland ....... mlnoland@bcpl.net