This chapter contains a lot of detailed information, which may be discouraging to the novice, and it is easy to lose sight of the fact that tree propagation can be as simple as putting an acorn in a pot. It is quite possible to produce young trees of many common species which can be successfully planted out in the autumn following seed collection. you may not be able to germinate all the species you want, but species which produce prolific and easy-to- germinate seed are by their nature ‘pioneer ’ species which are ideal for starting a new piece of woodland. Alder, rowan, birch, ash and hawthorn should be easy to produce. Other species which produce seed less frequently or are more difficult to propagate, and which tend to be slower growing and shade bearing species, can be added to the woodland later.
- Collect seeds at the time given under the species details, and either sow immediately in trays or pots of peat-free compost and place outdoors, or choose the simplest of the alternative methods given for pre-germination treatment. Protect from mice and birds.
- Sow remaining seeds (those given pre-germination treatment) in trays at the end of February. Keep moist, in greenhouse or cold frame.
- As soon as seedlings are large enough to handle (late March/early April), prick them out into individual deep pots or plug trays.
- Grow on outdoors in individual pots, or remove from plug trays when 3-4cm (1-1.5”) high and plant out into a prepared nursery bed.
- Plant out pot-grown species in their final sites in September. lift and plant out those from the nursery bed in late November.
- Protect from damage by animals and people, and keep weed-free for at least three years, until established.
