How Do You Identify Fruit Tree Leaves In Illinois?
Remarkable among the many trees both native and nonnative to Illinois are the fruit trees. Known for lush foliage, spring blossoms and fruit from summer to fall, fruit trees provide more than adequate shade. They provide home and sustenance to many animals and birds and visual appeal to casual observers. Throughout your travels in Illinois, whether through a countryside or a forest, identifying these trees can be an entertaining pastime. Observe the tree from which the leaf originates. In your notebook, write down the location of the tree, its approximate height, and the layout of its branches. Describe its bark and the appearance of its leaves. Make note of any flowers or fruits on the tree as well. Sketch a picture of the tree for further reference. Collect a leaf sample from the tree. Remove one mature leaf from the tree, and store it in a plastic bag. Make sure you remove it as closely to the branch as possible, keeping the stem. If you collect multiple leaf samples from different
