Post date: Aug 14, 2016 8:25:20 PM
Below is a of proposed Open4st activities that will be scheduled for implementation:
Select 40 to 70 clones for future field trials. Selection criteria will likely focus on vigor survival traits of cuttings and plus tree performances of cuttings and stools. Enter these clones in the r4st Plant database table with relevant details.
Assign aspen materials to Hybrid Classes.
Rename selected families and clones that have long, confusing names (eg. change 5xCAGR to 5xBR).
Designate aspen materials that will be used as controls in the r4st Plant table (eg. parents, tested clones).
Distribute cuttings or rooted stock to cooperators for field trials.
Design a .5 acre field trail scenario that considers the same spacing, number of plants, block and plot strategies.
Document cooperator sites in Google drive and later r4st database with measurements.
Update Open4st FAQ docs to serve as "White Papers" describing the what how of our aspen culture. Include:
How to plant and maintain aspens.
How to propagate aspens - WASP/ASP, Rootlings, traditional root propagation, ...
Produce a collection of YouTube videos like aspen culture, propagation and breeding. Emulate this open4st video.
Plant key selections and controls on DOT sites for an aspen seed/cutting orchard:
Use 1-1 mini-stools lifted from Bell nursery. Soak in water for 24 hours before planting.
Cut stools down to 24" total height. Cut roots to 2.75" width and use a 3" auger to bore a 12" deep hole.
Dip or brush mini-stools ends with thick paste of JRM SoilMoist Endophyte (1/2 tsp/100cc water), place in hole, push in a little topsoil, then mix in 1 handful (cup) of MiracleGro peat moss with the topsoil.
Plant 2 rows on 9x9 centers, rows 30' apart.
Also plant 20" cuttings of control clones at closer spacing with/without JRM dip.
Wrap above ground stem with 12" high x 10" wide fabric sleeves, secure with tack at the bottom, staple edges, except for 3" at top to let shoots through.
Staple one lengthwise sheet of Bounce dryer sheet to the inside of the fabric sleeve for cheap deer/rabbit/insect repellent.
Spray glysophyte around trees in mid May and July.
Test 8" cuttings in nursery with JRM/Peat moss dips.