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

V.3 Examination of a Developing Leaf

Aim

To study the structure of a leaf during early development.

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Young leaf from an opening bud (e.g. sycamore or rose)
  • Forceps or needle
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Water
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Remove a young, partially expanded leaf from a bud.
  2. Place a small portion on a slide with a drop of water.
  3. Apply a coverslip carefully.
  4. Examine under low power to observe overall form.
  5. Increase magnification to study finer structure.

Observations to Make

  • Degree of leaf expansion and folding.
  • Early development of veins.
  • Shape and arrangement of cells.
  • Differences between developing and mature tissue (if known).