The phenology location I chose to observe over the break lies in the Patuxent River Natural Resource Management Area. Although this natural area lies within minutes of my house, I have never observed the spot in the closeness that I had this week. Amongst my observations, I noted the focal tree species present. The old-growth forest was filled with American Beech, Black Cherry, and a plentiful number of Oaks. While most of the Oaks had shed their leaves already, I was able to notice the variety of Oak species through the leaves. Red Oak, White Oak, and Black Oak seemed to dominate the space. Along with my observations of the overstory, I was able to observe the understory as well. In my observations of the understory, I noted the presence of ferns on the forest floor. Ferns seemed to grow wildly in this area. The presence of ferns is validated by the close proximity to the bay. These moist, well-drained soils, serve as a perfect habitat for ferns, oaks, and beeches.
The ecology of my spot in Maryland differs from my spot in Centennial Woods as the there is a lack of Maples, and Eastern White Pines in MD. Noting that Oaks, American Beech, and even ferns in general require more acidic soils, points to my conclusion that the soils in MD, are more acidic than the soil at my spot in Centennial Woods.
