Field Notes Journal
Field Notes Journal a personal natural history of place

I.3 Examination of Plant Hairs (Trichomes)

Aim

To observe the structure and form of plant hairs (trichomes).

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Leaf (e.g. tomato, geranium, or nettle)
  • Forceps or needle
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Water
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Remove a small portion of the leaf bearing visible hairs.
  2. Place directly on a slide in a drop of water.
  3. Apply a coverslip gently.
  4. Examine under low power to locate hairs.
  5. Increase magnification to observe structure.

Observations to Make

  • Shape and size of trichomes.
  • Whether hairs are simple or branched.
  • Distribution across the leaf surface.
  • Any internal structure visible within the hairs.