Tree seeds have "wings"? But they can only spread farther after the wings are removed!

In nature, plants adopt various strategies to reproduce. Among them, the seeds of some plants have "wings", which allow them to be spread to farther places with the help of wind. However, for forest planting, this natural propagation method sometimes brings inconvenience. Dewinging of forest seeds is an important forestry technology aimed at improving seed sowing efficiency and survival rate.

The role of seed wings

The wings of seeds are actually a structure that plants have evolved to adapt to the environment. Winged seeds can float in the air and spread to farther places with the help of wind, increasing the spread range of seeds. This method of dispersal is of great significance to the spread of plant populations and the increase of genetic diversity. For example, the seeds of maple, elm and maple trees all have wings.

Maple Seed Wings

Maple seeds

Winged seeds not only increase the distance they can travel, but also protect them from ground animals to a certain extent. When seeds float in the wind, they are more likely to land in soil suitable for growth, thereby increasing the survival rate of the seeds.

Necessity of Dewinging Tree Seeds

Although seed wings play an important role in natural dispersal, dewing is particularly important in forest tree planting.

Improve sowing efficiency : Winged seeds are easily blown away by the wind during sowing, resulting in uneven sowing and affecting the survival rate and growth quality of trees. De-winged seeds are easier to control and can ensure that the seeds are evenly distributed in the sowing area.

Easy to transport : Winged seeds are easily lost during transportation and storage, increasing seed waste. De-winged seeds are easier to manage and use, reducing unnecessary losses.

Improve survival rate : After sowing, the winged seeds can come into contact with the soil faster, reducing the situation where they fail to land in time due to floating, thereby improving the survival rate of the seeds.

Easy for subsequent processing : De-winged seeds are easier to carry out subsequent processing such as disinfection, germination and coating, which can further improve the seeds' disease resistance and growth potential.