Step 1
Collecting the strongest seeds
2 - 4 months
Collecting the strongest seeds
Step 2
Preparing for growth in an early stage
4 - 5 months
Preparing for growth in an early stage
Step 3
Sowing and growing
2 - 4 years
Sowing and growing
Step 4
Harvest and packing for our clients
3 - 4 years
Harvest and packing for our clients
Step 5
Growing tall and strong
7 - 10 years
Growing tall and strong
Lifting
Nordmann fir seedlings are fresh and living products that must be handled with care and respect. To obtain the optimal and best possible start, the seedlings must be nurtured throughout the entire process - from collection to replanting.
That is why the lifting and sorting happens efficiently in the same workflow in the field. This is to minimize the risk of the roots drying out, due to exposure to sun and air.
Subsequently, the seedlings are placed, unbundled, in breathable transport boxes before being taken directly to our refrigerated storage room. The entire process takes a maximum of 2½ hours – and then the seedlings are ready for delivery.
At Majland, we only lift seedlings to order. We do not store seedlings for longer periods or store seedlings at sub-zero temperatures during the winter period. Our philosophy is that the shortest possible way from the nursery beds to the final stand site is the best possible starting point for further growth.
Seedling types
A Majland plant is easily recognized by a large root neck diameter, optimal root/top ratio, a large bud set and deep green color.
2/0 – SLIM TREE
This plant has been in the seedbed for 2 years and has not been transplanted. The advantage of a 2/0 is that it’s graded according to height and is very easy to plant with most planters. In addition, a 2/0 plant will produce a slimmer Christmas tree, as the first branch wreath is placed in the new position. After this, the plant has a whole year to establish itself producing long terminal leaders so that the “heavy bottom” of the Christmas tree is avoided. The down side a 1-2 year longer production period in the field.
2/1 – A SURE STARTER
The seedlings have spent two years in the seedbed followed by one year in a transplant bed. With their optimum root/top ratio, these are the most traditional seedlings in our range. They are very sure starters and a preferred choice on heavy soils for stand establishment under difficult conditions.
3/0 – STRONG PLANTS
This plant has been in the seedbed for 3 years, thinned as 2/0 and hasn’t been transplanted. The root/top ratio is good and the plant has a nice height of 15-25 cm. Since the plant has been left undisturbed in the plant bed, it has a stronger top and tends to have more buds in the upper whorl than the 2/1 plant.
2/2 – 1 YEAR LESS IN THE PLANTING
This plant has been in the seedbed for 2 years and in the transplant bed for 2 years – and is the strongest plant in our range. With a height of 15-35/+ cm. and a strong root neck diameter, it provides a harvestable Christmas tree a year before three-year-old plants under the right conditions. In extreme years it is appt to greater losses than 3-year-old plants.
Delivery and storage
During the “critical” periods of the year, all our plants are delivered by refrigerated transport, if possible. These "critical" periods of course vary from year to year, but a rule of thumb is 1st August to 15th September - and again from 10th April to 1st May.
When you receive the plants, please keep in mind that they are a fresh perishable product – and treat them accordingly. Venting of the boxes should take place on delivery in the “critical” periods. Also, make sure they don’t dry out at any time. If possible, store them in a dark, cool place before planting.
Next up: Step 5 - Growing tall and strong
Collecting the strongest seeds 2 - 4 months
Preparing for growth in an early stage 4 - 5 months
Sowing and growing 2 - 4 years
Harvest and packing for our clients 3 - 4 years
Growing tall and strong 7 - 10 years