An understanding of seed ripening characteristics is a qualification needed for any successful harvesting operation.
Cone collections begin in the late summer and fall for most species.
Collection of some fruit begins in mid-summer. Many factors must be considered before harvest can be completed. If forecasting was completed, this would be easily determined. For most species, it is recommended that the cones be collected immediately after the seed matures. Cones open very shortly after the seed matures, releasing it, making collection hard to complete.