Spraying forest seedlings is primarily done to protect them from damage caused by wildlife, fungal diseases, and insect attacks. It’s a crucial step to improve seedling survival and growth during the first few vulnerable years after planting.

Different products are used depending on the purpose: wildlife repellents to deter deer and moose, fungicides to prevent fungal diseases like root rot, and insecticides to protect against harmful insects. Many products are water-based and approved for forestry use.

Timing depends on the type of protection needed. For example, to prevent pine weevil damage, seedlings should be treated before planting, usually in spring. Wildlife repellents can be applied either before or after planting, depending on the product and weather conditions.

Spraying can be done manually with hand sprayers, backpack sprayers, or by dipping the above-ground parts of the seedlings. For large-scale operations, specialized spraying equipment is often used in nurseries or in conjunction with mechanical planting in the field.