Learning with Trees
May 2008
Phenology: What’s That?
Phe-nol-o-gy is the study of changes in plants and animals as they respond to weather, climate, and the seasons. You are studying phenology when you record the date a certain plant flowers, a tree's leaves emerge, an insect hatches, or a migratory bird appears on its nesting grounds. The dates on which these happen each year are affected by factors such as day length, temperature, and rainfall.
Lesson: Leaf Out
One of the best sources for observing spring's entrance in your area is found in your own schoolyard. Observing and recording a specific tree as it proceeds through its growth leads to inquiry into environmental changes. The resulting data is a visual picture of spring tree growth.
Featured School - Mississippi Elementary
Less than a mile from the Mississippi River, in a quiet residential Coon Rapids neighborhood, is Mississippi Elementary. This spring, staff and students are very excited to be renovating their under used nature area—a project that started last year when Mississippi Elementary developed a small butterfly garden as a part of their Learning With Trees School Program.
The Right Tree for the Right Place
Picking the right tree for the right spot is important because, well, trees can’t pick up and move to a better spot that is more appropriate for them. It is our responsibility to choose wisely when we plant a new tree.
Things to consider when selecting your tree
Tree Trust
2350 Wycliff Street Suite 200
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Phone: 651-644-5800
Fax: 651-644-1469
