Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) seed pods (Picture by Zakk Moorman).
Dwarf Larkspur (Delphinium tricorne) (Picture by Zakk Moorman).
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Background:
To monitor the emergence and bloom dates/times of various spring ephemeral wildflowers in order to observe changes related to changes in climate conditions. Spring ephemerals are a delicate group of wildflowers that occupy a very specific niche. They bloom in early spring and typically complete their reproductive cycle during a short period of time, before trees develop their leaves. This means they must make the most of what little time they have. Spring ephemerals also tend to be very small and prefer cool temperatures (around 20 C or 68 F). These low soil temperatures limit nutrient uptake but symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi help these plants take up nutrients more efficiently. Invasive and non-native species have a tendency to out compete native plants by blooming earlier, growing larger, and have a longer growing season. This presents a major problem especially when you factor in the changes in seasonal conditions already challenging our native flora. Lack of sunlight and competition for nutrients pose major challenges for native plants. |
At Wildwood Park, in Radford, Virginia, our Radford University Field Biology & Phenology class (BIOL 481; spring 2018) monitored emergence of spring wildflowers. Five teams of students recorded observations in 4 x 4 m plots located on the east-facing slope of Wildwood Park. Observations began in the third week of March 2018, when spring wildflowers first began to emerge from the ground. Observations were made weekly, from March 24 to April 21, 2018, to record changes in emergence, early growth, and flowering throughout the spring. Some species were present at the initial start of observation. Each team recorded all wildflower species present in their plot and the overall abundance of each species. Four spring ephemeral species occurred in all five monitoring plots:
All data was uploaded to the National Phenology Network via Nature's Notebook, a user friendly program that allows researchers and public observers to upload phenology (seasonal) observations of various plant and animal species. Nature's Notebook observation protocol was implemented along with their data collection sheets being utilized to help organize and record data. By using the protocols established by NPN, it aids in standardizing data collection and allows data to be used to analyze observations across different habitats, regions, or species. |
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadensis) (Picture by Zakk Moorman).
Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) Leaves (Picture by Zakk Moorman).
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National Phenology Network
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