1. Root Collection
· The best time to collect roots is from February to May on frost free days. The earlier the
better as this will allow time for shoots to develop and cuttings to be taken before
summer.
· Locate suitable roots near mature trees: check exposed rock and banks of streams and
lochs where roots may be uncovered; lines of suckers will indicate the location of
underground roots and wind blown trees will provide an abundance of propagation
material. Collect roots of 1-3 cms. in diameter.
· Expose the root and follow in both directions until it becomes too big or too small.
· Detach the root and cut into sections of approximately 30 cms. in length.
· Place in a plastic bag, with damp moss if they are to be stored for more than a day or
two.
· Label carefully with site name or reference number and date collected.
· Severed roots left in the ground will be stimulated to produce suckers, benefiting the site,
but over-collection may be harmful.
· Leave the site as undisturbed as possible, replacing soil, surface vegetation etc.
· Record activity so that the site is not stressed by over-collection in subsequent years.
Several years should be allowed between root collections, particularly at smaller sites.
· Put the roots in boxes of soil immediately or store in a cool, dark place.
· Roots packed with damp moss may be stored for several weeks if collected outside the
growing season, or several days otherwise.