This lovely short film is funded by the Growing Diversity project and features Craig Shearer, Operations Manager from Elsoms Trees Ltd. The film aims to support community tree nurseries and those interested in learning about tree seed collection for community projects. Thereby contributing to successful and safe events in the Autumn, collecting seeds.
Craig Shearer has had a rich and varied career. After finishing studies at Napier University in Edinburgh, he worked full-time for 12 years at the largest container forestry tree nursery in the U.K. During this period, he gained experience in general nursery operations, held the role of Grading Manager, contributed to sales, and eventually progressed to the position of Seed Manager.
In 2020, Craig left full-time employment to establish Proven Plants Ltd, a business focused on contract seed collection in Scotland and the cultivation of demanding tree species of local provenance for woodland creation.
Proven Plants has now become Elsoms Trees Ltd which aligns with a vision to facilitate business growth and position the company as a leader in self-sufficiency in seed and the production of native trees throughout the UK.
Elsoms were a good choice to support the Growing Diversity project as they have previously partnered with Woodland Trust Scotland to deliver a small nurseries support project and a volunteer seed collection pilot project.
The spotlighted species for the film are classed as those that are under collected in England: Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia); Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) and Yew (Taxus baccata). Craig also aimed to collect seeds from Small-Leaved Lime (Tilia Cordata) but unfortunately the seed quality was not strong or appropriate enough to include. Craig says that he believes that there have not been any suitable quality Small-Leaved Lime seeds collected in Scotland in the last twelve years. This is possibly due to the temperature not being optimum for the seeds to develop fully.
Craig shares key tips about how to plan the visit and what to look out for in terms of suitable areas and trees to collect from as well as advice for tasks to complete after seed collection.
TIPS - Before, during and after seed collection
For ease of reference when planning your seed collections, see the three ‘Tips’ slides below which are included in the film.
Note the FRM regulations in the first slide, you can find out more about these regulations here. You can also access the PDF document of these regulations via the link - FRM (Great Britain) Regulations.
The Regulations apply to all marketed forest tree seed and young plants in the UK. They ensure that all planting stock is fully traceable from the source, through the seed collectors and tree nurseries. So even if you are not planning to sell your planting stock it is very worthwhile registering with FRM, as this enables clear recording of the original seed sources and stock.
It can help you grow your nursery or project and develop your internal organisational and recording system from the start.
It is also important to note the following during seed collection:
Aim to collect seeds from an area where there is a healthy number of indigenous trees/stands that are part of a regenerative woodland, parkland or remote areas.
Avoid collecting seeds from small numbers of trees which are likely to have genetic restrictions.
Collect equal amounts of seed if possible from around 20 or more trees - mix well.
Be sure to leave plenty for wildlife and nature!
The following images of the different tree species that Craig collected from are taken from the film, all photos are courtesy of Stroma Films.
To find out more about what to do with the seeds once you have collected, you can watch the seed processing film with Craig which follows on from this film.
A little more about Elsoms Trees from the ‘About Elsoms Trees’ web page -
At our nursery we will organise the growing and supply of 1 to 3 year old plants to the highest environmental standards, and agreed specification.
Unlike conventional plant suppliers, we will identify, support and encourage the use of local nursery facilities to ensure local accountability and plant health. We offer advice and support in all aspects of plant production and seed collecting, as well as complying with all current legislation requirements, including plant traceability and bio security.
Our team consists of family members and contacts who have many years of experience and success in delivering the ‘right seed, right plants, right place.’
With thanks to Craig and Elsoms Trees Ltd and to Stroma Films for the beautiful film!
Hilary Campbell
Growing Diversity Project Coordinator.
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