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Native Plants Journal - Article

Storing Acorns

Abstract:

We examined changes that occurred in acorns during storage at different temperatures and moisture contents over a period of 3 y. In general, we found that to achieve optimum viability, acorns must be stored fully hydrated. Acorns also survived longer and sprouted less while in storage if stored at -2 ̊C (28 ̊F) instead of the usual 4 ̊C (39 ̊F). However, we suspect damage to white oak embryonic axes at the lower temperature and at this time cannot recommend storage at -2 oC for this species. While we were able to store fully hydrated red oaks for as long as 3 years, we have been less successful with the white oaks. If you are in doubt about the quality of your acorns, go back to the basics-clip open a sample and check them for color and freshness.

Issue & Pages:

Fall 2004 Pages: 160-166

Article Download:

5-2NPJ160-166.pdf (PDF document)

Authors:

  • Kristina Connor

Keywords:

oak, Quercus, moisture content, recalcitrant seeds, storage temperature