1*0 OHIO EXPERIMENT STATION: MONTHLY BULLETIN 



The simplest method of storing nuts and acorns is to place 

 them in a shallow pit dug in well-drained soil and cover lightly witk 

 leaves and earth. Since stratified seeds may sprout early, they 

 should be examined frequently as early spring approaches, and 

 planted at the first sign of sprouting. If the sprouts become too 

 long the seed may be worthless for planting. Seeds should be 

 planted early in the spring as soon as the soil is in good condition, 

 regardless of whether they have sprouted or not. The use of 

 sprouted hickory nuts and walnuts has the advantage of promising 

 a good stand from a small amount of seed, and they are less likely 

 to be disturbed by rodents. 



CARE OF PLANTING STOCK 



Trees shipped to the planter from a distance should be un- 

 packed immediately upon arrival. If the roots are dry they should 

 be dipped in water. They should then be heeled in trenches and 

 the roots completely covered with fine earth, well firmed about 

 them. It is particularly important that evergreens be carefully 

 protected, for if the roots once become dry enough to cause the 

 resinous sap to "set" no amount of soaking in water will save them 

 for the planter. Young evergreens may be killed in a few minutes 

 by exposure to drying wind and sun. An evergreen out of the soil 

 is like a fish out of water and will die almost as soon. Many losses 

 in evergreen plantings are due to careless handling of the stock be- 

 fore it is planted. Hardwood seedlings are not as sensitive to dry- 

 ing as the evergreens, but they too are injured if not properly 

 heeled in or protected. 



A convenient way to handle evergreens when planting is to 

 carry the needed supply in a bucket with enough water to thor- 

 oughly cover the roots, or in bunches rolled in wet burlap. Where 

 several planters are to be supplied it is well to have an extra man 

 or boy to carry trees. 



CARE OF TREES AFTER PLANTING 



Plantations do not require much attention after planting. 

 They should receive protection from grazing and fires. Often the 

 temptation is strong to pasture newly established forests. Live- 

 stock may do much harm by browsing and trampling the young 

 trees. 



