Does the timing of outplanting spools effect the growth rate of kelp?

[jill_pegnataro]

The ideal time for outplanting spools is when the air temps are above freezing and water temps are around 50F. This is usually in late October or early in November.  

When spools are outplanted later in the season water temps are colder and there are less nutrients in the water column. Here is an image of kelp that was outplanted in the later months. This kelp will have slower growth rates in the winter but as the waters warm up and there is more light and nutrients available in the spring the kelp growths will increase. 

If the kelp is outplanted earlier in the season when there are nutrients in the water column, there will be a more consistent growth rate throughout the winter months.