Genetics and Forest Seed Handling

High genetic quality seed is obtained from seed sources that match the planting
site, have a good outcrossing rate, and are superior in some desirable characters.
Non-degraded natural forests and plantations may be used as untested seed
sources, which can sometimes be managed to promote outbreeding and increase seed production. Planted seed orchards aim at capturing large genetic variation and are planted in a design that facilitates genetic evaluation and promotes outbred seed production. Good seed production relies upon success of the whole range of reproductive events from flower differentiation to seed maturation. Physiologically sound seed shows a high germination rate, but
germination may be restricted by various dormancy mechanisms that in nature
aim at delaying or restricting seed germination during time of poor seed survival.