Description
Latin Name: Pinus sibirica
DESCRIPTION
Family: Pinaceae
Native Range: Native to Russia, specifically the Ural Mountains and Siberia.
Seed Source: Siberian pine collection near Indian Head Saskatchewan.
Height and Spread: 20m x 8m.
Overview: Siberian pines are native to Siberia. The 'Baikal' seed strain originates from a collection made near Lake Baikal in Siberia in 1985. The collection was planted in a seed block near Indian Head, Saskatchewan. They are drought tolerant and our seeds are well adapted to northern temperate regions. The 'Baikal' seed strain has grown very well in southern Saskatchewan. It is ideally adapted for planting in non-boreal regions.
Seeds: Yellow-brown and nut-like, 10-12 mm long.
Average number of seeds/packet: 60
SEED TREATMENT / SOWING
Stratification: Soak in water for 24 hours then warm stratify at 20°C for 60 days in moist sand followed by 120 days at 5°C.
Ideal sowing time: Sow stratified seed outdoors in May or non-stratified seed in late August.
Sowing instructions: Outdoors - sow 1.0 cm deep, 50 seeds/meter; Greenhouse - sow 3 seeds per cell.
Growing conditions: Siberian pine grows well in heavy clay soils. Typically it has steady though not fast growth and is very tolerant of severe winter cold, hardy down to at least –60 °C, and also of wind exposure. Unlike other pines Siberian pine drop their needles mid-summer so don't be alarmed if your tree begins to turn shades of yellow from old needles dying in the summer. The needle drop is over after a few weeks.
Agroforestry Value
'Baikal' Siberian pine seeds are tasty and nutritious, they have been harvested and eaten by people for generations. In addition to its abundant crops of tasty nuts, Siberian pine is also valued for its attractive dark green foliage and dense, pyramidal shape. Its slow growth rate makes it a good tree for small gardens.
