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

II.1 Examination of Pollen from Flowering Plants

Aim

To observe the form and surface structure of pollen grains.

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Fresh flower (e.g. lily, tulip, or daisy)
  • Needle or fine brush
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Water
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Collect a small quantity of pollen from the anthers using a needle or brush.
  2. Transfer the pollen to a slide.
  3. Add a small drop of water to disperse the grains.
  4. Apply a coverslip carefully.
  5. Examine under low power to locate grains, then increase magnification.

Observations to Make

  • General shape and size of pollen grains.
  • Surface texture or sculpturing.
  • Presence of apertures or pores.
  • Degree of uniformity among grains.