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

V.1 Examination of Bud Scales

Aim

To observe the structure of protective bud scales.

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Bud (e.g. horse chestnut or beech)
  • Forceps or needle
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Water
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Remove a bud from the plant.
  2. Carefully separate one or more outer scales using forceps.
  3. Place the material on a slide with a drop of water.
  4. Apply a coverslip gently.
  5. Examine under low and then higher magnification.

Observations to Make

  • Shape and thickness of bud scales.
  • Surface texture and structure.
  • Arrangement of layers within the scale.
  • Any variation between outer and inner scales.