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Conifer cones need to be opened to release the seed inside.
Jack pines and Black spruce require intense heat (>60 C). White spruce cones will open in dry warm conditions.
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It should be noted that there are several cones processing facilities in Ontario that are well equipped to clean cones from a variety of species.
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You will need: Garbage can with lid (for tumbling cones), coarse sieve (approx. 2cm opening), threshing mat and paddle, table fan
Cleaning conifer cones
1. Once cones have opened, place them in a tumbler. You can use a garbage can with a lid. Roll around or shake to release the seed from the cones.
*Please note, removing the cones from the branches will result in a cleaner final seed product. Once dried the needles will shed and are difficult to separate from the final seed.
2. Pour cones over a coarse sieve (about 2cm opening). Place a sheet of large cardboard sheet below to catch the seeds.
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3. Step on cones to further open scales and release seed. Return cones to tumbler and repeat.
4. Place winged seeds on a threshing mat. Gently (with a light pressure) thresh the seeds using a rubber paddle to break the wings.
5. Winnow material to remove wings.
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