Plant Biology for Gardeners Learning Objectives Recognize the

Plant Biology for Gardeners

Learning Objectives • Recognize the parts of a plant and their functions. • Discover the ways plants are classified into family groups and the value of scientific names. • Become familiar with the environmental factors that affect plant germination, growth and phenology (spacing, nutrients, light, day length, water, temperature). • Examine three basic processes for plant growth and development: photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration. • Consider how plant characteristics are used in classification, identification and dichotomous keys.

Discuss with a partner: • Why is a scientific name important? Why might it be important for gardeners to know how to research and identify a plant’s scientific name? • What captivates you most about plants? • After going through the pre-work, what questions do you have about plant biology?

Cultivating Plant Observation Skills Activity

Station-Based Activities • • Herbaceous plants Woody plants Monocots & dicots Flower parts

Learning Objectives • Recognize the parts of a plant and their functions. • Discover the ways plants are classified into family groups and the value of scientific names. • Become familiar with the environmental factors that affect plant germination, growth and phenology (spacing, nutrients, light, day length, water, temperature). • Examine three basic processes for plant growth and development: photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration. • Consider how plant characteristics are used in classification, identification and dichotomous keys.

References • Southern Tier MGV Work Team, CCE Tioga, Tompkins, Chemung, and Broome Counties • Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Michael A. Dirr, 1998, pg. xiv-xxviii. • The Botany Coloring Book. Paul Young, 1982, pg. 83 & 98.

Learn More Contact: Cornell Garden-Based Learning http: //gardening. cals. cornell. edu/ Published: April 2019 Author: Fiona Doherty Reviewer: Donna Cooke, Michelle Podolec