Title: Identify common trees and shrubs using techniques to determine the species of a tree or woody plant.
Course: Applied Agricultural Concepts (18002-II-36) > Section: Managing Trees and Shrubs

Identification should include

- fruit trees
- deciduous trees
- coniferous trees and evergreens
- ornamentals
- trees vs. shrubs
- foliage vs. flowering
- determining where tree and shrub varieties would thrive based on the USDA Hardiness Zone
- plant identification using
  - shrub
  - tree
  - vine
  - perennial or annual
  - plant type
  - location
  - flowers
  - bark or stem structure and texture
  - foliage type
  - leaf attachment
  - leaf shape, margins, and veining
  - sap
  - berries, fruit, or seed.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it important to understand a tree’s hardiness zone?
- What factors should be before selecting a tree or shrub for a playground? Below a power line? Next to a house?
- What are some techniques used to identify the species of a tree or woody plant?

Teacher Resources:

- Common Native Trees of Virginia and Common Native Shrubs and Woody Vines, Virginia Department of Forestry
- What Tree Is That? Tree Identification Guide, Arbor Day Foundation