C L I M AT E C H A N G E A N D M I C H I G A N F O R E S T S

Get in Touch with Trees!Lesson 1

Why Are Forests Important?

Habitat

Economy

Recreation

Nutrient cycling

Air purification

Other______________

Prevent soil erosion

Water retention

Cooling

Carbon sink

Jobs & Careers

Other ______________

How do plants grow?

What factors affect plant growth?

Temperature:How does temperature affect plant growth?

• Temperature determines how fast photosynthesis occurs.

• Temperature influences how much water is available for plants to use for photosynthesis.

Precipitation:How does precipitation help plants grow and survive?

• Photosynthesis – Precipitation influences how much water plants can access and use for photosynthesis and growth.

• Heat movement – Plants allow water vapor to exit openings in the leaves, taking heat with it.

• Structure – Water held in plant cells gives plant leaves and stems shape and structure.

Precipitation

Light:How does light affect plant growth?

• The amount of light and the intensity of light plants receive determine how much energy is available for photosynthesis.

Soil:How does soil type affect plant growth?

• Soil type determines how much water and what types of minerals are available.

Temperature

Precipitation

SoilLight

Are these factors the same in every environment?

Trees grow where they

are adapted to

live

• Smaller, waxy needles limit water loss and protect photosynthetic cells.

• Keeping leaves year-round saves energy and allows photosynthesis to occur when conditions permit.

• The cone shape of the tree helps conifers drop heavy snow.

Conifers are adapted to colder climates

• Broad, flat leaves capture more light.

• The open shape of the branches exposes leaves to the maximum amount of light possible.

• Shedding leaves prevents water loss and damage during winter.

Deciduous trees are adapted to more moderate climates

• Forests provide important services for humans and the environment.

• Factors that affect plant growth include: temperature, precipitation, light, and soil type.

• Plants are adapted to grow in a particular environment.

Wrap Up