Horticulture Exam 2
Define GI and give and example.
A network of greenspace that provides ecosystem services to a community. EX: Huckleberry Trail links several communities and provides recreation, cooling, and stormwater retention
If you do not mow Kentucky bluegrass, how tall will it get? A. 12-18 inches B. 24-36 inches C. 3-5 feet D. 6-8 feet
A. 12-18 inches
An 11-acre green roof on an industrial building that is planted in 6 inches of substrate and planted in a monoculture of grasses is sometimes called A. An extensive green roof B. An intensive green roof C. An air strip D. A roof top garden
A. An extensive green roof
Aquatic life in urban streams is likely to be _____ in comparison to aquatic life in rural or forested streams. A. more tolerant of sudden temperature fluctuations B. less tolerant of sudden temperature fluctuations C. better able to hide under rocks D. less able to select appropriate rocks to hide under
A. more tolerant of sudden temperature fluctuations
What is an example of the principle: genotype X environment = phenotype? a. A stunted street tree in a small tree pit. b. The genetic makeup of a hybrid yellow pepper. c. The evolution of genetic material from a particular climatic region. d. The principle of priority of publication.
a. A stunted street tree in a small tree pit.
An original research article published in a peer-reviewed, scientific journal would be considered... a. primary literature b. secondary literature c. grey literature d. green literature
a. primary literature
What do carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere have in common with a greenhouse? a. They both contribute to global warming. b. They both trap radiant heat from the surface of the earth. c. They are both made of glass. d. They both have high levels of iron
b. They both trap radiant heat from the surface of the earth.
Many plants are in the Crassulaceae family. What is one thing many of these plants have in common? a. They are native to wet areas b. They are C4 plants c. They are CAM plants d. They are C3 plants
c. They are CAM plants
What are two types of lawn grasses native to the U.S.? A. Kentucky bluegrass and buffalo grass B. St. Augustine grass and buffalo grass C. Fine fescue and buffalo grass D. St. Augustine grass and Kentucky bluegrass
C. Fine fescue and buffalo grass
What is embodied energy? A. The energy used to recycle used building materials. Thus considered a carbon "savings" when making a sustainability calculation. B. The energy emitted from a warm object such as aslphalt (a black body). This is the energy that causes the urban heat island at night. C. The energy used in the manufacture or delivery of a material. Thus considered a carbon "cost" when make a sustainability calculation. D. The energy used to empower people to use more sustainable building techniques.
C. The energy used in the manufacture or delivery of a material. Thus considered a carbon "cost" when make a sustainability calculation.
Caring for trees at the individual plant scale is known as... A. urban forestry B. tree surgery C. arboriculture D. phylogeny
C. arboriculture
When creating habitat for a particular animal in an urban greenspace, what needs to be considered? A. The food requirements of the animal. B. Its behavioural patterns at all life stages C. Reproductive habits. D. All of the above.
D. All of the above
You wish to grow plants that require a well-drained soil (i.e. do not tolerate excessive moisture) on a green roof. What factors should you consider in selecting a substrate? A. Pore size distribution B. Organic matter content C. Depth of the substrate D. All of the above.
D. All of the above.
Which is least likely to persist in an urban environment? A. An animal that can feed on a variety of seeds, but little else. B. An animal that is a predator C. An animal that is afraid of humans. D. An animal that requires a specific plant to eat to survive or a very specific type of habitat.
D. An animal that requires a specific plant to eat to survive or a very specific type of habitat.
Who is Robert Costanza? A. A philosopher who wrote extensively about the benefits of public parks in late 20th century New York B. An economist who first described the influence of ownership on human economic behavior C. The inventor of the binomial system for naming plants and other organisms. D. An ecologist who was instrumental in establishing the concept of defining values for "natural capital" and "ecosystem services.
D. An ecologist who was instrumental in establishing the concept of defining values for "natural capital" and "ecosystem services.
When assessing the tree resource before a building project, why is tree "structure" examined? A. Because it relates to the proportion of the canopy that is covered with foliage and is a key indicator of tree vigor. B. Because structure indicates a disease problem that will need to be treated. C. Because trees that do not have structure should be removed as soon as possible. D. Because it relates to stability of the trees and its branches. If unstable, the tree could break apart or fall over and injure or kill someone.
D. Because it relates to stability of the trees and its branches. If unstable, the tree could break apart or fall over and injure or kill someone.
Why did Dutch elm disease spread so quickly through towns and cities in the U.S.? A. Because there were very large, contiguous populations of elm trees, allowing DED to spread from tree to tree. B. Because American elm is not resistant to this disease from Asia. C. Because American elm trees were already stressed from an elm canker outbreak that occurred in the early 1930s D. both a. and b. E. all of the above
D. both a. and b.
Which of the following mineral soil components has the smallest particle size? a. silt b. sand c. fine sand d. clay
D. clay
What characteristic of a tree is generally the strongest indication of the magnitude of the ecosystem services (such as stormwater capture and transpirational cooling) it provides? A. its age B. its family C. its structure D. its leaf area
D. its leaf area
The roof membrane under a green roof lasts... A. approximately half as long as on a conventional roof B. the same amount of time as on a conventional roof C. 2-3 times longer than on a conventional roof D. 4-5 times longer than on a conventional roof
C. 2-3 times longer than on a conventional roof
Approximately what percent of the impervious area in Athens, Georgia is made up of roofs (according to a study cited in the review article you read)? A. 5% B. 20% C. 30% D. 55%
C. 30%
What is an allee of trees? A. A record kept by an urban forester of the planting and removal dates for trees B. A gene that confers a specific trait to a group of trees C. A double row of trees, typically of the same species, and evenly spaced for a formal look. D. A group of trees that are cut repeatedly for charcoal production
C. A double row of trees, typically of the same species, and evenly spaced for a formal look.
What does CPTED stand for? A. Callery Pear Tree Eradication Dispatchers B. City Plants That Engage Diversity C. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design D. Common Place Therapy for Environmental Diseases
C. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
Around the Blacksburg area, where are you most likely to see a Scarlet Tanager? A. At Heritage Park (an old farm that is mostly open fields with tall grasses and herbaceous perennials. B. Around the Duck Pond and stormwater detention ponds C. Off the trails radiating off Pandapas Pond D. At people's houses, around bird feeders
C. Off the trails radiating off Pandapas Pond
What is a tree protection zone (TPZ)? A. The soil area which contains all of the roots of a tree B. A national or state forest that prohibits timber harvesting C. The area within which no construction activity or trafficking may occur when you are preserving trees during construction. D. The area of soil that is shaded by the canopy of a tree
C. The area within which no construction activity or trafficking may occur when you are preserving trees during construction.
What is the downside of using a continuous panel of felt or other absorbent material to construct a green wall? A. They must be mounted with chicken wire, which tends to be unsightly. B. The wall will essentially have hundreds of perched water tables at different levels that will make it too wet. C. The wall will be much wetter at the bottom than the top. D. These materials do not allow roots to grow upwards, only downwards.
C. The wall will be much wetter at the bottom than the top.
What types of trees have been shown to have greater benefits in terms of psychological well-being for city residents? A. Trees that do not fruit or flower B. Smaller trees with multiple stems C. Trees that are near/accessible and large in stature D. Larger trees that are viewed from a distance (such as a forested ridge top)
C. Trees that are near/accessible and large in stature
Modern transportation systems and storage techniques have allowed food to be transported long distances to market. A side effect of this change is that local agricultural infrastructure has declined. What are some examples of such infrastructure? A. suppliers of tractors, combines, and other farm equipment B. soil fertility, fertilizer salespeople, locally produced compost C. tomato processing facilities, meat packing houses, stockyards, canneries, local markets for selling food, grain mills. D. retail outlets for fresh produce and consumers to purchase the produce
C. tomato processing facilities, meat packing houses, stockyards, canneries, local markets for selling food, grain mills.
If you were building a green roof on campus, what would be a likely benefit of consulting with a green roof company or green roof nursery that was based on the region, rather than a famous French consultant who has built many roofs in Paris? A. Aside from simply being closer, the primary benefit would be that the local designer is familiar with our climate and available substrates and plants B. Aside from simply being closer, there wouldn't be any benefit. The experienced designer from Paris would be the best choice. C. The local designer would be able to get a better price for plants and substrates because he or she would know the business owners D. The local company would be licensed to install green roofs in Virginia. The French designer would have to take an exam and become licensed first.
A. Aside from simply being closer, the primary benefit would be that the local designer is familiar with our climate and available substrates and plants
In the book chapter, Dr. Cook refers to "subclimax" lawns. Why are lawns "subclimax"? A. Because mowing prevents succession. B. Because lawn species are not native C. Because lawns generally occur where there are extremely high or extremely low temperatures D. Because the optimum species are not included in seed mixes.
A. Because mowing prevents succession.
In the Ida B. Wells apartments in Chicago, how did courtyards with grass and trees affect property crimes (vandalism) and violent crimes within buildings compared to those with concrete and no vegetation? A. Both types of crimes were reduced by about 40-50% B. Property crimes decreased by more than 50%, while violent crimes were only slightly reduced. C. While violent crimes were reduced, property crimes occurred at the same rate, but were directed at vegetation and trees (breaking branches, etc.) D. Both types of crime were reduced by about 20-30%
A. Both types of crimes were reduced by about 40-50%
Grasses adapted to hot, arid regions are more likely to have what kind of metabolism? A. C4 B. CAM C. C3 D. C10
A. C4
You are developing a building site in an urban area that has numerous large trees on it, some of which will have to be removed to construct the building. You are planning to create a LEED-certified building with a SITES-certified landscape. What is one thing you must do before the design process begins in order to meet SITES pre-requisites? A. Consult with an urban forester or arborist B. Define TPZs around all the trees C. Plant an equal number of trees in another site D. All of the above
A. Consult with an urban forester or arborist
Fractured substrates such as green roof media have limited capillary water movement. This means that water.... A. Does not move very far laterally, influencing irrigation design and method B. Moves a considerable distance laterally, influencing irrigation design and method C. Stays near the surface, influencing irrigation amount D. Penetrates to the interior of each gravel-like particle
A. Does not move very far laterally, influencing irrigation design and method
Green roofs and green walls often rely on "lightweight" substrates ("substrates" meaning growing media or soil) Why is this considered important? A. Even lightweight substrates are fairly heavy when wet and supporting plants. It is expensive to retrofit existing buildings or build new ones that can support the weight of green roofs and walls unless weight is reduced by using a lightweight substrate B. The weight of the media is trivial, but most "lightweight" substrates are low in organic matter ta might leach out and pollute waterways C. Because getting the substrate onto the roof is the most expensive part of any green roof installation, so reducing costs of lifting are important D. Because the Green Roof Council certifies green roof substrates and they only approve lightweight substrates to reduce their liability
A. Even lightweight substrates are fairly heavy when wet and supporting plants. It is expensive to retrofit existing buildings or build new ones that can support the weight of green roofs and walls unless weight is reduced by using a lightweight substrate
What is an issue that must be considered when using biological or industrial waste as part of a green roof substrate? A. It needs to be evaluated for contaminants (such as heavy metals) B. It will have high embodied energy C. It will require intensive irrigation D. It will not be suitable for intensive roofs
A. It needs to be evaluated for contaminants (such as heavy metals)
The heavy black membranes that are the covering for most roofs on campus have to be replaced _________ if covered with a green roof. A. Less often B. More often C. Just as often D. Once every hundred years
A. Less often
In order to reduce Alligator/Human conflicts, what landscaping practice is NOT recommended in Florida? A. Maintaining mowed turfgrass up to the edge of a water body, pond, creek, etc. B. Planting trees that bear fruit (especially oranges) near ponds and swamps C. Planting shrubs near house foundations. D. Allowing palmettos to colonize underneath shade trees
A. Maintaining mowed turfgrass up to the edge of a water body, pond, creek, etc.
In the Ida B. Wells apartments in Chicago, how did courtyards with grass and trees affect property crimes (vandalism) compared to those with concrete and no vegetation. A. More vegetation meant fewer property crimes B. More vegetation had no effect on property crimes C. Property crimes occurred at the same rate, but were directed at vegetation and trees (breaking branches, etc.) D. More vegetation meant more property crimes overall.
A. More vegetation meant fewer property crimes
You install a green roof planted with container-grown sedums and similar plants. How is the nitrogen (N) export from the roof liable to change over time? A. N export may be much higher initially than it is a year later. B. N export will increase gradually over time until the roof has to be replaced (usually 5-10 years) C. N export is generally constant over time on a green roof D. Green roofs do not export N
A. N export may be much higher initially than it is a year later.
What is the Cryptomeria genus in Japan most well known for? A. Producing copious amounts of pollen that result in booming sales of face masks. B. It fantastical branching pattern that stimulates the ability to solve puzzles when people view it in the winter (when the leaves are off). C. Its fragrance, which has been shown to reduce aggression. D. Its long species name: C. synochloroformanoidesfoliastratum
A. Producing copious amounts of pollen that result in booming sales of face masks.
What is an example of habitat that is particularly attractive to the Baltimore Oriole? A. Tall trees B. Dense shrubs or understory C. Fields of grass or other grains with seed heads. D. At least 5 acres of contiguous forest (no open space)
A. Tall trees
Look at this photo of a carrot with "legs" by Brett Forsyth (CC). It's cute, but not very good for eating. What condition do you think caused the carrot to grow in this form? A. The soil is too dense or compacted. B. Top growth was overstimulated by too much nitrogen fertilizer. C. Nematodes in the soil ate the bottom of the carrot. D. This is a dwarf cultivar of carrot.
A. The soil is too dense or compacted.
On a vertical wall, if substrate is NOT installed in cells (ie. it is a continuous layer) what is a possible effect? A. The top of the wall will be exceedingly dry and the bottom exceedingly wet because of gravitational water movement B. The top of the wall will remain very wet because of capillary flow C. The wall will collapse under its own weight D. The wall will be better suited to native woodland plants
A. The top of the wall will be exceedingly dry and the bottom exceedingly wet because of gravitational water movement
In Japan, shinrin-yoku has been demonstrated to reduce a panel of stress measures (cortisol levels, blood pressure, etc.) in people. How do people accomplish shinrin-yoku? A. They walk through a forested environment for 15 minutes. B. They close their eyes and visualize a rain forest. C. They arrange flowers. D. They do a type of very slow calisthenics in a vegetated park.
A. They walk through a forested environment for 15 minutes.
A study in Indianapolis described in the reading found children in greener neighborhoods had lower levels of obesity. Did this finding still hold when the researchers adjusted for other factors such as education and income? A. Yes B. No C. Only for boys, not for girls
A. Yes
In one of your readings, 25 different species/cultivars of succulent plants were evaluated for their performance on extensive green roofs in Michigan at different substrate depths. Roughly how many of the evaluated plant types persisted in the deepest substrate? A. about 12 B. about 19 C. about 5 D. virtually all of them
A. about 12
Native plants and wildlife that thrive in urban areas tend to... A. be adaptable species B. be on endangered species lists C. be unable to reproduce D. be specialists
A. be adaptable species
In plants, respiration is a process where... A. energy is derived from carbohydrates and carbon dioxide is released B. carbon dioxide is taken up and oxygen is released C . gases are recirculated throughout the plant D. nitrogen gas is derived from excessive fertilization
A. energy is derived from carbohydrates and carbon dioxide is released
The green roof on Seitz Hall (that we looked at in our outdoor class) is what type of green roof? A. extensive B. intensive C. retentive D. exportative
A. extensive
Research at the University of Rochester showed that when students spent time in a setting with living plants (as opposed to no plants) and were then given 5 dollars, they were more likely to... A. give the money away B. keep the money for themselves C. spend it within 30 minutes D. place it in a savings account
A. give the money away
According to the review article you read on green roof performance, as a green roof ages organic matter content and water-holding capacity of the substrate would likely... A. go up B. go down C. stays roughly the same D. Can go up or down, depending upon wind speeds.
A. go up
Many of the best management practices for lawns in Virginia are directed at... A. improving soil quality and rooting depth B. breeding new grass varieties C. Requiring monitoring of nutrients leaching from the soil D. Reducing the use of turfgrass within 200 yards of a waterway
A. improving soil quality and rooting depth
In desert areas that have been converted to suburban landuses, biological diversity of wildlife tends to... A. increase B. decrease C. stay the same D. it has never been studied, so we don't know
A. increase
In desert areas that have been converted to suburban landuses, biological diversity of wildlife tends to... A. increase B. decrease C. stay the same D. It has never been studied, so we don't know.
A. increase
What is a problem more likely to arise in small urban forest fragments, hedgerows, and unmanaged vacant lots than in other parts of the urban forest? A. invasion by nonindigenous plant species B. development of sunscald on tree trunks C. embolisms D. Oxygen deprivation of the root zone due to excessive mulching and poor drainage
A. invasion by nonindigenous plant species
The composting method used by Will Allen (Growing Power of Milwaukee) consiste of two parts. The first uses static composting while the second allow further processing by employing... A. worm beds B. active composting C. anaerobic conditions D. imported peat
A. worm beds
Which soil will likely have a higher capacity for holding plant nutrients (as opposed to letting them leach out)? A. A sand soil B. A sandy loam C. A loam D. A clay loam
D. A clay loam
What are some important considerations for producing vegetable and fruit crops in urban settings? A. Ensuring soil contamination does not create problems with food safety or safety for those producing the food. B. Using space-efficient production methods because land MAY be expensive/valuable. C. Reducing or eliminating the use of pesticides because of close proximity to human populations. D. All of the above
D. All of the above
What are some of the health benefits that can arise from urban greenspaces? A. Reduced blood glucose in diabetics B. Decreased recovery time for hospital patients C. Increased self-discipline D. All of the above
D. All of the above
Why is soil structure important for allowing plant growth? A. The aggregation of soil can allow better water drainage in soils with finer textures (silts, clays, etc.) B. Soils with a well developed structure are likely easier for roots to penetrate C. Soils with well developed structure can simultaneously drain well and retain enough water for plant growth D. All of the above
D. All of the above
Why did Dutch elm disease spread so quickly through towns and cities in the U.S.? A. Because American elm trees were already stressed from an elm canker outbreak that occurred in the early 1930s B. Because there were very large, contiguous populations of elm trees, allowing DED to spread from tree to tree. C. Because American elm is not resistant to this disease from Asia. D. Both b. and c
D. Both b. and c
Cool-season grasses grow best during cool, mild weather, such as spring and fall in Virginia. These types of grasses are... A. Fungal plants B. C4 plants C. CAM plants D. C3 plants
D. C3 plants
What is one of the most inexpensive ways to establish an extensive green roof that is mostly sedum and other succulent plants? A. Planting individual plants from small pots or "plugs" (very small pots) followed by irrigation B. Green roof modular tiles that are placed and are already established and ready to go C. Green roof "sod" that is laid down directly on the media and followed by irrigation. D. Distributing cuttings directly on the media, followed by hydromulch or perhaps irrigation.
D. Distributing cuttings directly on the media, followed by hydromulch or perhaps irrigation.
You are a bird, living in an urban area. What is a characteristic of the urban environment that can be very difficult for you to deal with? A. Food is scarce B. Water is only intermittently available C. The air is polluted D. It is noisy
D. It is noisy
Which of the following is a cool-season grass? A. Zoysia grass B. Buffalo grass C. St. Augustine grass D. Kentucky bluegrass
D. Kentucky bluegrass
Virginia is considered to be in a "transition" region for turfgrass. What does that mean? A. That bentgrass is the primary turfgrass species with some Kentucky bluegrass in the more southerly parts of the state B. That houses in the western part of the state tend not to have lawns. C. That environmental regulations concerning turf fertilization are being phased in gradually over a period of many years D. That cool-season grasses will perform best during fall and spring, but not well in summer, while warm-season grasses will perform well in summer, but not in cooler times of year.
D. That cool-season grasses will perform best during fall and spring, but not well in summer, while warm-season grasses will perform well in summer, but not in cooler times of year.
In the eco lawn mixes designed and tested in the Western U.S., what was the function of yarrow? A. Yarrow is resistant to broadleaf herbicides (herbicides that don't kill grasses) and so allows for weed control of other components of the lawn. B. Yarrow fixes nitrogen and phosphorus and so eliminates the need for fertilization C. Yarrow is preferred by sheep and goats and attracts them to these lawns, thus eliminating the need to mow. D. Yarrow is drought tolerant and would survive the summer
D. Yarrow is drought tolerant and would survive the summer
. Which is more effective at keeping building interiors cool in summer? A. a traditional black membrane roof B. a roof painted light green C. a roof painted white D. a green roof
D. a green roof
Is a web site an authoritative, primary source? A. It could be, for example many government and international agency reports are published online and these are authoritative. For example, population statistics. B. It could be, if there is an article with an identifiable author, publisher and date and a date of access. But these are likely to be secondary sources (meaning they are reporting information compiled by another source). C. It could be, but the majority of the internet presents information unedited and compiled from other sources. Generally you will want to work your way back to the original source. D. All of the above.
D. all of the above
Why do scientific journal articles cite other scientific journal articles? A. To show how their research fits into the context of other research that has been done in the past. B. To make clear and documented links to past research that serves as a foundation for the research being presented. C. To document that their research conclusions are fully supported by the scientific evidence. D. All of the above
D. all of the above
You are designing a green roof. Which of the following might influence energy use in the building? A. plant selection B. substrate depth C. substrate type D. all of the above
D. all of the above
A soil test will be helpful for... A. determining nitrogen needs for a lawn, but is not very helpful for determining phosophorus needs B. assessing stormwater capture potential in a lawn C. indicating potassium needs for a lawn, but little else. D. determining whether soil is deficient in phosphorus, but is not very helpful for determining nitrogen status.
D. determining whether soil is deficient in phosphorus, but is not very helpful for determining nitrogen status.
Multiple research trials around the U.S. have determined that mulching 2-5 inches of tree leaves on top of a lawn (by running a mower back and forth over them) ... A. Is acceptable for warm-season grasses only that will be going dormant in the winter. B. is not cost effective because of energy costs for running the mower C. will greatly weaken the lawn. More than 1 inch of leaves smothers the grass. D. is not detrimental to lawn quality and soil nutrient status
D. is not detrimental to lawn quality and soil nutrient status
Aquatic life in urban streams is likely to be _____ in comparison to aquatic life in rural or forested streams. A. less physiologically adaptable B. less behaviorally adaptable C. more behaviorally adaptable D. more physiologically adaptable
D. more physiologically adaptable
Both of the U.S. native turfgrasses are... A. are on the endangered species list B. deep green in color C. require N fertilization to persist in Virginia D. susceptible to damage by too much foot traffic
D. susceptible to damage by too much foot traffic
Some seed mixes for lawns contain clover. What is the primary reason for this? A. to reduce salt damage to turf B. to support fungal communities that suppress common turf diseases C. to create honeybee habitat D. to reduce N fertilization requirements
D. to reduce N fertilization requirements
In what year did the world's population become majority urban residents? a. 2007 b. 1945 c. 1983 d. 1872
a. 2007
What is the function of the lenticels in woody plants? a. Allows gas exchange through the stem b. Transports water from the roots up to the leaves c. Signals roots to initiate growth d. Transports sugars throughout the plant.
a. Allows gas exchange through the stem
Lead (Pb), Iron (Fe), and Manganese (Mn) are all likely to become MORE plant available as the soil pH... a. Goes down b. Goes up c. Stays the same for more than 4 months d. none of the above
a. Goes down
You are using the terminal budscale scars to determine how vigorously a tree is growing. You examine an upright branch near the top of the tree, and a lower, hanging branch. Which one would you expect to have the larger growth increment? a. The branch near the top b. The lower branch c. They should be the same d. Low branches do not have terminal buds, so you couldn't use that branch
a. The branch near the top
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone is determined by a. The mean annual minimum temperature b. An algorithm that incorporates mean minimum temperatures and average annual rainfall. c. The absolute minimum temperature recorded during the previous 20 years. d. A survey of nursery operators and landscapers throughout the United States.
a. The mean annual minimum temperature
What is one of the primary means of cooling by plants? a. The release of water vapor through leaf stomata b. photosynthesis c. transporting heated water to the root system d. absorbing heat through respiration
a. The release of water vapor through leaf stomata
Some campus trees exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves between the veins). This is likely because... a. The soil pH is too alkaline b. Many tree species do not tolerate low pH soils c. Charcoal briquettes have been dumped on their roots during tailgates d. This is a natural characteristic of many trees
a. The soil pH is too alkaline
Some trees exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves between the veins) in urban areas. This is likely because... a. The soil pH is too alkaline b. Many tree species do not tolerate low pH soils c. Charcoal briquettes have been dumped on the site d. This is a natural characteristic of many trees
a. The soil pH is too alkaline
If you have two trees of similar size, species, and health but one is in Jefferson National Forest and one is on the grounds of the state capitol in Richmond, which has more value? a. The tree in Richmond b. The tree in Jefferson National Forest c. They have exactly the same value d. It depends upon whether the tree in Richmond can be seen from the road
a. The tree in Richmond
The most fundamental principle of plant nomenclature is a. There is only one correct scientific name for a given taxon whether species, genus, family, or other. b. No plant name can be the same as that of a bacterium. c. Every species must have at least one variety or form. d. The family name must always be included to fully identify a plant by its scientific name.
a. There is only one correct scientific name for a given taxon whether species, genus, family, or other.
The most fundamental principle of plant nomenclature is a. There is only one correct scientific name for a given taxon whether species, genus, family, or other. b. No plant name can be the same as that of a bacterium. c. Every species will have at least one variety or subvariety. d. The family name must always be included to fully identify a plant by its scientific name
a. There is only one correct scientific name for a given taxon whether species, genus, family, or other.
Why is often considered an advantage to have a coarse, rapidly draining substrate on a green roof? a. because even heavy storms would infiltrate rapidly, preventing water from ponding on the roof. b. because rapidly draining substrates hold more water, reducing runoff c. because most plants do not tolerate the wet growing conditions common on most roofs d. because coarse substrates make an excellent seed bed, allowing green roof plants to fill in effectively
a. because even heavy storms would infiltrate rapidly, preventing water from ponding on the roof.
According to the article by Nagase and Dunnett (in the reading), which plant type is more effective at capturing stormwater on a greenroof—grasses or Sedumspp.? a. grasses b. Sedumspp. c. there is no difference d. Sedumspp., but only when there was a mix of at least 12 different Sedum.
a. grasses
Plants growing in compacted soils typically... a. have shallower root systems and may be stunted b. Have red or pink fruits c. Have long, thin roots that extend into the water table d. Grow more quickly because of increased water availability
a. have shallower root systems and may be stunted
The pH of urban soils is usually ________ compared to nearby forest soils. a. higher b. lower c. equal to forest soils d. neither soil has any pH to speak of
a. higher
compared to nearby landscape sites, the environment for plants on roof tops is likely to be ... a. hotter in summer and colder in winter b. very similar c. wetter in summer and drier in winter d. warmer in winter, the same otherwise
a. hotter in summer and colder in winter
One strategy for reducing damage to urban plants from road salt is to: a. irrigating planting beds by roadsides during periods when roots may be active. b. replacing soil by roadsides that is likely to be contaminated with salt. c. avoid using salt during the critical months of January and February when plant damage is likely to be the greatest d. spraying plants with horticultural oil to prevent salt spray from contacting plant tissues.
a. irrigating planting beds by roadsides during periods when roots may be active.
A Japanese zelkova (Zelkova serrata) has been planted in 5 ft X 5 ft cutouts in a parking lot where the soil is welldrained with a pH of 7.0. What expectations do you have for its growth over the next 20 years? a. it will grow better than many other species because it is tolerant of poor drainage.[and thus can likely grow under the pavement better] b. it will attain a canopy of 250-275 sq. ft. c. it will die within a year or two because of nutrient deficiencies brought on by low pH d. it is a small tree an
a. it will grow better than many other species because it is tolerant of poor drainage.[and thus can likely grow under the pavement better]
What is a possible symptom of inadequate soil volume in urban trees? a. leaf scorch (edges of leaves turn brown) b. excessive shoot growth c. canopy becomes denser d. trunk is very smooth
a. leaf scorch (edges of leaves turn brown)
Greater biodiversity in urban forests is associated with... a. more resilience against pest attacks b. lower bird populations c. smaller stature trees d. greater amounts of pavement and compacted soils
a. more resilience against pest attacks
The scientific name for "pin oak" is Quercus palustris. What does this suggest to you about pin oak? a. pin oak is probably native to swamps, marshes, or other low-lying areas b. pin oak is drops its leaves early in the fall c. pin oak has glossy leaves d. pin oak is probably used for making fence posts
a. pin oak is probably native to swamps, marshes, or other low-lying areas
In the United States, a "Champion" tree is a. the largest documented example of a species as calculated by a point system. b. the oldest documented example of a species, but not including clonal plants c. the tallest documented tree in each state, regardless of species d. an designation given to any urban tree more than 70 feet tall and 65 feet wide
a. the largest documented example of a species as calculated by a point system.
In one of your readings urban forest researchers did a cost/benefit analysis comparison of two tree planting programs. In the long-term one of the programs gave the city a $60,000 per year advantage. Which program was this? a. the one that planted mostly large-growing tree species b. the one that planted mostly small-growing tree species c. the one that planted an equal number of small-, medium-, and large-growing species of trees d. the one that planted mostly medium-growing tree species with a few large- and small-growing species
a. the one that planted mostly large-growing tree species
Vines growing up and covering a wall in a city is an example of.... a. vertical greening b. a green roof c. urban forestry d. arboriculture
a. vertical greening
The Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) is a.. a. voluntary certification program for the sustainability of landscapes with or without buildings b. a regulatory requirement for new buildings in Washington DC and some other large cities c. a nonprofit group that offers monetary incentives for installing greenroofs in the U.S. d. a sort of soil SWAT team that treats urban soils for heavy metal contamination by planting Brassica spp.
a. voluntary certification program for the sustainability of landscapes with or without buildings
If you were buying a good quality mineral topsoil, what is a likely organic matter content that you would expect or perhaps specify? a. less than 1% b. 3-5% c. 10-15% d. at least 25%
b. 3-5%
You notice a beautiful native plant growing in standing water in a swamp in Virginia. What does that tell you about how this plant would grow in a typical urban landscape setting? a. It will not grow, because it requires standing water b. It may grow well in an urban setting, but you would need to evaluate its tolerances to know for sure c. It will require alkaline soil and so will grow well provided there is enough water d. It will be evergreen in urban settings
b. It may grow well in an urban setting, but you would need to evaluate its tolerances to know for sure
Plants obtain an array of essential nutrients from the soil. When the soil pH is raised from 5.5 to 7.5, which of the following is most likely to become unavailable to plants? a. Nitrogen (N) b. Manganese (Mn) c. Phosphorus (P) d. Quinoa (Q)
b. Manganese (Mn)
You have three plants that are Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford'? What can you determine about these plants from the name? a. That they are genetically variable b. That they are genetically identical or very nearly so. c. That they are resistant to stem breakage. d. That they are not cold hardy in Virginia.
b. That they are genetically identical or very nearly so
Which of the following is a cross (hybrid) between two genera? a. Narcissus 'Beryl' (Beryl daffodil) b. Xcupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress) c. Cornus florida var. rubra (pink dogwood) d. Acer Xplatan
b. Xcupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress)
Which of the following is a hybrid between two genera? a. Narcissus 'Beryl' (Beryl daffodil) b. Xcupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress) c. Cornus florida var. rubra (pink dogwood) d. Acer Xplatanoides 'Bloodgood' (Bloodgood London plane)
b. Xcupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress)
The plant process where oxygen is released and carbon dioxide is consumed is called: a. respiration b. photosynthesis c . fermentation d. fluorescence
b. photosynthesis
Which of the following mineral soil components has the LARGEST particle size? a. silt b. sand c. fine sand d. clay
b. sand
As global temperatures rise, sea levels are expected to rise. This is because of ... a. eroding coastlines b. thermal expansion of water and melting glaciers c. enhanced river flows from urban runoff d. increased volume of organisms living in the ocean
b. thermal expansion of water and melting glaciers
A significant advantage of green walls and other types of vertical greening is... a. they are 2X more effective at storm water control compared to green roofs b. they can fit a lot of plants in relatively tight urban spaces c. they do not require irrigation d. they sequester large amounts of carbon compared to other urban plantings
b. they can fit a lot of plants in relatively tight urban spaces
Lead tests indicate soil lead levels are approximately 550 ppm in an area proposed for a community fruit and vegetable garden. Which activity is probably reasonably safe in terms of human health. a. Eating collard greens (Brassica oleracea) grown on the site. b. Having children cultivate an herb garden on the site. c. Eating tomatoes grown on the site, especially if carefully washed. d. none of the above
c. Eating tomatoes grown on the site, especially if carefully washed.
What best describes stomates (a.k.a. stomata)? a. The cells that link together to transport water and nutrients throughout a plant b. Bacteria that colonize the outside of citrus fruit c. Openings or pores typically on the underside of leaves that open to permit leaf gas exchange d. Raised corky ridges on stems of some woody plants
c. Openings or pores typically on the underside of leaves that open to permit leaf gas exchange
Sedum spp. are frequently used on green roofs in the United States. What is one characteristic they have that makes them particularly suitable for green roofs? a. They are native to wet areas b. They are dry-season deciduous plants c. They are CAM plants d. They are C3 plants.
c. They are CAM plants
What was observed in the study in the course readings about the lead content of crops produced in urban gardens? a. no lead was present in any crops if soil lead content was less than 550 ppm b. all crops accumulated harmful amounts of lead if soil lead content were greater than 550 ppm c. roots tended to accumulate more lead than above ground plant parts d. lead was distributed evenly throughout any plant that took up lead
c. roots tended to accumulate more lead than above ground plant parts
What is the primary reason for incorporating organic material such as compost into a landscape soil? a. to transport hormones to plant roots b. to attach to clays so they can be extracted c. to help build soil structure d. to improve drainage
c. to help build soil structure
Which soil will likely have a higher capacity for holding plant nutrients (as opposed to letting them leach out)? a. A sand soil b. A sandy loam c. A loam d. A clay loam
d. A clay loam\
Which describes an extensive green roof? a. A green roof that includes accent plants, such as flowering perennials and tall grasses. b. A green roof that is at least 6,000 square feet in area c. A green roof with a natural soil media of at least 6 inches deep that supports a wide variety of plant material d. A low-maintenance green roof with shallow media that typically has a simple plant design focused on the mitigation ofstormwater and heat rather than aesthetics or human interaction
d. A low-maintenance green roof with shallow media that typically has a simple plant design focused on the mitigation ofstormwater and heat rather than aesthetics or human interaction
Who espoused the theory of the "invisible hand" that guides our actions to efficiently benefit society? a. Garrett Hardin b. William F. Lloyd c. Robert Costanza d. Adam Smith
d. Adam Smith
What is the name of the insect that threatens urban forests and has been imported in pallets from Asia? a. nectria bug b. emerald ash borer c. elm bark beetle d. Asian long-horned beetle
d. Asian long-horned beetle
What occurs in the "light-independent" or "dark" reactions in photosynthesis? a. The stomata open, usually at night, to release heat and cool the plant down. b. Energy from sunlight is converted into chemical energy by chlorophyll. c. Carbohydrates are shunted around the plant, especially to the roots. d. Carbon from carbon dioxide is "fixed" into sugars using the energy generated from the light reactions.
d. Carbon from carbon dioxide is "fixed" into sugars using the energy generated from the light reactions.
Who is the Swedish naturalist who first framed the binomial system of naming organisms that is now internationally used and accepted? a. Garret Hardin b. Cornus Vesuvius c. Søren Kirkegaard d. Carolus Linnaeus
d. Carolus Linnaeus
What is a new innovation that will be used to protect the turf at the Washington Mall? a. Dethatching turf before and after every event b. Covering turf during events with 6 inches of wood chips c. Covering turf during events with plywood on top of Enkadrain d. Covering turf during events with proprietary ground coverings (Terratile and Matrax) that allow some light transmission
d. Covering turf during events with proprietary ground coverings (Terratile and Matrax) that allow some light transmission
Soil with a grayish-blue mottling is often called "gleyed." Gleying is an indication of.... a. Soil erosion b. Alkalinity c. Low pH d. Poor drainage.
d. Poor drainage.
Soil provides an important ecosystem service by storing significant amounts of carbon. Which of the following is likely to result in release of soil carbon into the atmosphere in urban settings? a. Adding biosolids compost to the soil as an amendment. b. Applying lime to the soil surface to raise pH. c. Raking up leaves in the fall. d. Soil grading (i.e. moving soil around on a site to change the topography)
d. Soil grading (i.e. moving soil around on a site to change the topography)
In the plant name Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh.., (commonly known as green ash) What does the "Marsh." refer to? a. This refers only to an ecotype of green ash that lives in swamps b. This is an abbreviation for "marshy site" to indicate this tree is native to bottomland sites. c. It is the cultivar name d. That the tree was described and named by Humphry Marshal
d. That the tree was described and named by Humphry Marshal
In the picture to the right, what caused the horizontal lines around the stem? a. These are corky ridges formed to present insects from climbing to the tip of the stem where the leaves are b. These are lenticels that allow gas exchange c. This is from ovideposition by 17-year locusts d. This is where bud scales were attached at one point
d. This is where bud scales were attached at one point
What is the function of the phloem in plants? a. Allows gas exchange through the stem b. Transports water from the roots up to the leaves c. Signals roots to initiate growth d. Transports sugars throughout the plant
d. Transports sugars throughout the plant
What are functions of roots? a. water uptake b. anchorage c. carbohydrate storage d. all of the above
d. all of the above
Why are Sedumspp. so common green roofs in the U.S.? a. they have been shown to reliably persist in harsh conditions such as extreme drought b. there are many species and cultivars available c. they are mostly evergreen d. all of the above
d. all of the above
Compared to cities in other parts of the world, cities/metropolitan areas in the U.S. such as Baltimore, Phoenix, and Washington DC tend to be...? a. more dense and compact b. have much higher populations c. depopulating d. less dense and more land consumptive
d. less dense and more land consumptive
What would best describe the root system of a very large oak tree growing on the Virginia Tech drillfield (assume roots have not been cut and are not hampered by buildings/pavement). a. the root system is slightly narrower than the canopy and 6 to 30 feet deep b. The root system is entirely in the top 6 inches of soil c. the root system is roughly as deep as the tree is tall and about the same width as the canopy d. the root system is wider than the canopy with most roots in the top few feet of soil
d. the root system is wider than the canopy with most roots in the top few feet of soil
What is a primary function of the filter fabric that is typically installed below the media/substrate on a green roof? a. to regulate water speed b. to hold reserve water for plants c. to retain nitrogen d. to prevent finer particles from washing out
d. to prevent finer particles from washing out
What are the two primary ecosystem services associated with green roofs?
A. Temperature moderation and storm water mitigation
One advantage of vertical greening is.. A. That you can incorporate benefits of greenspace into relatively tight urban situations where space is very limited B. They require virtually no maintenance because there is little open soil. C. 9 out of 10 dentists prefer vertical greening to horizontal greening D. Vertical greening sequesters more carbon than traditional landscapes
A. That you can incorporate benefits of greenspace into relatively tight urban situations where space is very limited
What is xylem? A. The part of the plant vascular system that transports water and nutrients upwards. B. The corky ridges on the exterior of tree bark that allow gas exchange C. An exudate from roots that allows roots to grow more easily through soils D. A disease transported by a bark beetle
A. The part of the plant vascular system that transports water and nutrients upwards
You are managing your urban forest with a single goal: to increase canopy as quickly as possible. What is a possible consequence of this approach? A. genetic diversity of the urban forest will increase B. genetic diversity of the urban forest will decrease C. pest outbreaks will become less frequent D. more slow-growing trees will be planted
B. genetic diversity of the urban forest will decrease
You must replace the water main to your house and dig a trench about 25 feet away from a tree that you value. What characteristics do you need to know about the tree in order to estimate if this will damage the tree? A. canopy width, species, age/maturity B. trunk diameter, species, age/maturity C. age/maturity, species D. height, species
B. trunk diameter, species, age/maturity
If you increase the small diameter particles in a green roof substrate (i.e. it has more "fines") you would expect... A. water-holding capacity to stay the same B. water-holding capacity to increase C. there will be no water-holding capacity D. water-holding capacity to decrease
B. water-holding capacity to increase
According to a North Carolina study, what is the minimum width of a greenway that will support at least some species of forest-interior dwelling birds? A. 10 m B. 50 m C. 100 m D. 400 m
B. 50 m
According to a North Carolina study, what is the minimum width of a greenway that will support at least some species of forest-interior dwelling birds? A. 10 m B. 50 m C. 100 m D. 400 m
B. 50 m
Food "deserts" exist in both urban (often inner city) and rural areas. What is a food desert? A. A food desert is an area where you cannot grow any food because the climate is not hospitable (either too dry, or otherwise not suitable) B. A food desert is a geographic area where a healthy selection of food is not for sale. C. A food desert is a misspelling of a food "dessert" and is another term for areas where people eat a lot of cakes, cookies, brownies, and other sweet foods. D. A food desert is where only dried food is available.
B. A food desert is a geographic area where a healthy selection of food is not for sale.
What is "natural surveillance"? A. A term describing how predator species locate their prey when there are no buildings. B. A term describing the likelihood that a space is visible to other people in the ordinary course of events such that it deters crime. C. A euphemism for a police protective order D. A term for political activist groups that catalog the condition of urban greenspaces
B. A term describing the likelihood that a space is visible to other people in the ordinary course of events such that it deters crime.
You are building a house on a lot with a large number of trees on it. You want to retain a mature tree as a specimen for the front of the house. Which is the best choice? A. A mature white oak tree that is in a forest fragment on the lot. B. An open-grown, mature white oak tree in a former pasture. C. A small white oak tree that has had its growth suppressed by surrounding trees. D. None of the above, because white oaks cannot be preserved.
B. An open-grown, mature white oak tree in a former pasture.
What is another pest that has been imported to the U.S. in wooden pallets and crates that threatens to dramatically alter our urban forests? A. Jensen's sharp shooter B. Asian long-horned beetle C. common slime mold D. Portuguese shaking borer
B. Asian long-horned beetle
Some tree species are more sensitive to root damage than others, especially as large trees. How do you determine the sensitivity of a particular species? A. Collect a leaf and twig sample and send it to the Virginia Tech Plant Clinic in Price Hall. B. Consult a reference book and the experience of arborists who have worked with that species. C. Consult the National Tree Species Preservation Database that houses results of 100s of long-term research studies on individual species response to construction damage. D. You can estimate species response based upon how thick the bark of a mature specimen is.
B. Consult a reference book and the experience of arborists who have worked with that species.
Least terns ( a shorebird) nesting grounds are typically barrier islands. What element of the built environment provides supplemental habitats to these terns? A. bridge trusses B. Flat rooftops C. Green roofs D. The pea gravel mulch beds around street trees
B. Flat rooftops
When building a green wall using a felt (soilless) system, what is a common cause of failure? A. Weed seeds lodge in the wall from the wind and are difficult to remove from the felt B. Plants die from too much or too little water C. The wall is heavy and collapses under its own weight D. Mold grows on the felt and causes illness
B. Plants die from too much or too little water
At what soil depth are fine tree roots usually found in urban environments in Virginia? A. they are evenly dispersed in the top three feet B. Shallow, primarily in the top 12 inches of soil, partly because of soil compaction. C. It depends entirely upon the tree species D. Quite deep (greater than 12-15 inches) because of the dry climate/hot summers.
B. Shallow, primarily in the top 12 inches of soil, partly because of soil compaction.
At approximately what depth is most of the root surface area for trees grown in typical urban soils? A. The vast majority are below 24 inches deep. B. The top 12 inches. C. Between 12 and 24 inches. D. The top 2 inches
B. The top 12 inches.
