Guide 1B Communities
Resources
Additional activities, a behind-the-scenes gallery, recommended books, and more.
About this Guide
Summer is Here
The dragonflies have emerged from the pond, birds are bringing their fledglings to the feeders, and two fawns are hiding in the tall grass. As summer term progresses, make sure you spend some time outdoors connecting to nature. We’ll be sure to include labs that support your adventures.
Lesley
Behind-the-Scenes
Mealworm Beetles
Easy to raise and interesting to study. Here is the basic set-up.
Winter Fun
Next time you are in a cold and snowy place, here is a plant anatomy game to play with family & friends.
Forage
We have a small herd of deer and have planted a mix of seeds to support their new fawns.
Masting year
In some years, fruit trees produce an abundant number of fruit, called a “masting” year. This is a masting year for our cherry trees.
Growing Herbs
Many herbs can be grown from seed in a bright window. Even if they are not large enough for culinary use, many have attractive leaf forms and scents that make them an interesting houseplant.
“Helpful”
Tanjiro & Uschi-Swirl, our two Bengal cats sometimes assist with class. They are brothers; brown-spotted and brown-marbled.
Whatever He Wants
Uschi is surviving two cancers (pancreatic and intestinal) and was initially diagnosed with less than a month to live… a year ago! Surgery and chemotherapy from the incredible OSU Small Animal Veterinary residents and students made this possible. Every day with him is precious.
Journaling Ideas
Garden Journal
Humans have recorded seed germination patterns for thousands of years, and modern agricultural records are critical in predicting harvest dates and yield estimates. Home gardeners also often keep records of specific planting dates and factors that impact plant health.
Here is a journal I put together while planning a “Garden Biology” course.
Recommended Books
Few plants are more interesting to grow than carnivorous plants; this book is a great place to start the adventure.
This is a modern classic: a wide range of nature in a portable field guide.
There are so many terrific herbals; but if you like photos like I do, it’s hard to beat DK and Eyewitness publications.
Build a Library
Whether its digital or print, collect resources that assist in exploring, describing, and explaining the natural world.
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1B: Communities