234 NATURAL HISTORY OF THE FARM 



never know by merely reading about them: it can only 

 be learned at first hand. 



Study 36. Observations on the trees in summer 



The program of work for this study will consist of an 

 examination of the crowns of a dozen or more of the com- 

 moner deciduous native trees, principally as to their habits 

 of growth and the characters of their leaves, flowers and 

 fruit. A few flowering and fruiting boughs of each tall- 

 growing species should be previously pruned and brought 

 down to earth for common use. 



The record of this study may consist of one or the other 

 or both of the following tables, according to the needs of the 

 student. Table i, on recognition characters of the green 

 tree, is intended for those who have not already a good 

 acquaintance with these characters, such as is prerequisite 

 to the work on reproductive habits that is outlined in the 

 second table. The tables (to contain only original observa- 

 tions) may be prepared with column headings as indicated 

 below. 



1. Table of Growth-Characters of Trees 



Name. 



Height (estimated height of a mature tree, in feet or 



meters). 

 Growth-habit (see page 72 and figure 40). 



type (simple or compound). 



arrangement (opposite, alternate, whorled, etc.). 



form (diagram a single leaflet, if compound). 



Leaves 



size (length by width in inches). 



surface (rough or smooth, dull or shiny, hairy or 



spiny, etc.). 

 margin (diagram a bit of it). 



