The operational planting stock quality testing program at Weyerhaeuser

The value of the Seedling Testing System (STS) is five-fold. First, it minimizes the utilization of poor quality stock that might result in regeneration failure. Second, it assists nursery managers in estimating cold hardiness of seedlings in support of the nursery frost control program. Third, it helps prevent crop losses due to pathological problems in the greenhouse and nursery. Fourth, it helps the nursery staff develop good working relationships with outside customers who benefit from the testing service. Fifth, it is a valuable tool for the nursery and tree improvement research program.