Viability of Bigleaf Maple Seeds After Storage

Authors: Zasada, John C.; Tappeiner II, John C.; Max, Timothy A.

Source: Western Journal of Applied Forestry, Volume 5, Number 2, 1 April 1990 , pp. 52-55(4)

Publisher: Society of American Foresters

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Abstract:

Bigleaf maple is a common hardwood in western Oregon and Washington. Stored seeds from this species are generally believed to lose viability within a few weeks. In this study, two experiments were conducted with seeds collected in 1986 and 1987 in the Oregon Coast Range west of Corvallis, OR. Seeds collected in 1986 had a field moisture content (percentage of dry weight) of 49% and in 1987, 16%. The viability of the seed with the lowest moisture content declined from 75 to 60% during 1 year of storage at 1°C; the seed with the highest moisture content declined from about 90 to less than 10% viability. Storing the seeds at -10°C did not increase viability. Stratification of seeds for more than 60 days did not appear to increase germination. West. J. Appl. For. 5(2):52-55, April 1990.

Document Type: Journal article

Affiliations: 1: USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, Portland, OR 97208

Publication date: 1990-04-01

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