The aims of this manual are two-fold. Firstly it presents the practical plant propagator with all the relevant information he needs to ensure reliable production from seed of the more commonly grown ornamental broadleaved species. It includes the latest results of the Forestry Commission’s own work and summarises existing in formation gleaned from experienced nurserymen and the literature. The second aim of this manual is to provide the student and interested amateur with a complete scientific background to the subject of raising trees and shrubs from seed, and to act as a reference volume should they wish to pursue their interest more deeply. It will also act as a handbook for anyone involved in seed collection, seed testing and storage.