Botanical Field Press
Preservation for Study
A plant press is a series of wooden lattices, cardboard ventilators, and absorbent papers used to rapidly dry plant specimens while keeping them flat. This process preserves the plant’s structural features indefinitely, allowing for accurate identification and documentation in your field notes.
Traditional Context
While the modern lattice press is a Western scientific development, Plains Native people used similar flattening techniques for delicate medicinal herbs, often placing them between flat pieces of bark or smooth stones inside their parfleche bags.
How to Use a Press
- Placement: Arrange the plant on the paper to show both the upper and lower sides of the leaves, as well as the flower structure.
- Pressure: Tighten the straps evenly. The goal is to remove moisture quickly; if the press is too loose, the plant may mold.
- Ventilation: Place the press in a dry area with good airflow.
Modern Recommendation
For students of ethnobotany, a standard 12x18 inch wooden lattice press is the industry standard. It is light enough to carry in a backpack but robust enough to handle thick-stemmed prairie species.