Question

Which of the following figures represents the correct method of pressing plants to form herbarium sheets?

• A. Figure A as the plant parts are folded
• B. Figure B as every plant part is unfolded
• C. Both figures A and B as folding or unfolding does not matter
• D. None of these

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Figure B as every plant part is unfolded

A Herbarium is a collection of dried plants systematically named and arranged for ready reference and study. To make a herbarium specimen, the plant is collected, and notes are made about it. The plant is then pressed until dry between blotters that absorb moisture and mounted onto a herbarium sheet with a suitable label. Plant specimens collected should fit the standard herbarium mounting paper, $11\frac{1}{2}x16\frac{1}{2}$ inches. Plants prepared for a herbarium should be pressed flat and dried as quickly as possible. The faster they dry, the better the color; and rapid drying under pressure produces specimens that often keep their color for many years. Just before placing in specimen paper (blank newsprint is excellent for specimen papers, or folded newspapers can be and often are used), the plant may be shaken gently to shake the leaves back somewhat into their normal position.

So the correct option is B.