- First the location of the tree or plant should be examined. This is usually done to identify large groups of trees. For instance, a quick examination of the tree and the surrounding forest should show whether it is a conifer or deciduous variety. Climate is also important. A water-loving shrub will not be found growing in dry soil, and a plant that loves shade will not usually grow in full sunlight.
- Leaves are one of the most common ways to identify plants and trees. The leaves should be examined for color, both on the top of the leaf and the bottom, along with general size and shape. The edge of the leaf is also very important. Is it serrated or smooth? What shape are the serrations? Needles are often identified by length, color and how many needles are in one bunch.
- Almost every plant produces fruit of some sort--the body that holds the seed and provides it food. Many plants can be identified by this fruit. Cones are different sizes, shapes, colors and textures, depending on the tree. Plants produce fruit of different colors, clusters and defense mechanisms. If there are no fruits at all, it may be a fern or other spore-producing organism.
- Seeds are produced by some trees and often found inside the fruits of all plants. Their size and shape are very important for identification, but it can sometimes be difficult to narrow down a plant species solely on seed information unless the seeds are very noticeable, such as acorns.
- When examining trees, the bark should always be taken into account. Types of bark change in appearance based on the side of the tree and the climate, but bark patterns and color can still be used to help make difficult identifications. Stems are also important for smaller plants, not only in size and color, but also in the exact ways they split to form leaves and branches.
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