Abstract Lack of success in tree planting is often ascribed to "poor handling." Although the term never has been clearly defined it usually implies excessive exposure and consequent drying of the roots. This study shows that moderate exposure of the roots of dormant deciduous seedlings does not decrease the percentage of survival, and that fully dormant seedlings are less susceptible to injury from drying than are those which are breaking dormancy.
Andrew J. Briggs (Fri,) studied this question.