A recognised and suitably experienced seed collection group will assess and collect seed stock for the project in accordance with the Flora-Bank guidelines for seed collection, storage and propagation, which is in line with RTA specification DCM R176 Seed Collection.

All seed that is collected will be labelled on site, with site information, collector, date, species and any other relevant information. Leaves and other identifying features are also collected with the sample to confirm identification once seed is returned from the field. After collection and sorting seed is labelled with all appropriate information and stored in sealed containers. Large quantities of seed would be bagged and sealed in plastic bags and treated with carbon dioxide to kill any bugs in the seed.

When the appropriate size is reached, seedlings are potted up, usually in standard forestry tubes, and are put into the hardening-off area. Plants will be hardened-off immediately to ensure they will be strong enough for planting when at their appropriate size. Plants which survive this process would be expected to survive in the field.